The former president was in Guinea-Bissau as head of the
West African Elders Forum Election Observation Mission to monitor the country’s
presidential and legislative elections held last Sunday.

However, while in the country, there were reports that
soldiers had seized power and taken control of key institutions, suspended the
electoral process and announced that they would administer the state “until
further notice”.

The political tension sparked public concern in Nigeria over
Jonathan’s safety and that of the delegation he was leading.

On Thursday night, the former president was evacuated from
Guinea-Bissau and returned to Nigeria.

Speaking shortly after his meeting with Tinubu, Jonathan
said his visit was to brief the president on what transpired in Guinea-Bissau.

Jonathan urged the military to release the detained
opposition leader, stressing that the election results should determine the
next president.

“I came to brief Mr President so he could have first-hand
information,” he said.

“The key thing is that the election was concluded, and the
results are known. The winner must be announced. The military must not be
removed by force, or lives will be lost.

“ECOWAS leaders should engage with them—they are human
beings and know the right thing to do.”

He added that the political unrest in Guinea-Bissau should
not be described as a palace coup but rather a “ceremonial coup” and urged a
peaceful resolution.

See photos below.