Lagos, Nigeria — A delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) arrived in Guinea-Bissau on December 1, 2025, to mediate following the country’s recent military coup, which occurred on November 26, 2025.
The ECOWAS delegation, led by Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio, is seeking to restore constitutional order to Guinea-Bissau. The delegation’s visit follows Nigeria’s authorization to provide protection for Guinea-Bissau’s opposition leader, Dias da Costa, amidst an imminent threat to his life.
Following the coup, Guinea-Bissau was suspended from all ECOWAS decision-making bodies. ECOWAS is pushing for the immediate restoration of constitutional order and the proclamation of the results of the November 23 presidential election. The coup came three days after a closely contested election, where soldiers have banned demonstrations, strikes, and activities seen as threats to peace.
Guinea-Bissau’s former President, Umaro Sissoco Embaló, reportedly fled to Brazzaville, Republic of Congo, after his arrest. General Horta Inta-a, the former army chief of staff, has been installed as the head of the military government, overseeing a one-year transition period. He has also appointed a new 28-member government, and several political figures remain in detention.
The coup has raised concerns across the region, with neighboring countries expressing solidarity and calling for the restoration of democracy. Nigeria’s decision to protect Dias da Costa at the Nigerian embassy in Bissau underscores the urgency of the situation and the need for a peaceful resolution.
“This intervention is a testament to our commitment to peace, stability, and the rule of law in Guinea-Bissau and the entire region,” President Maada Bio said during the delegation’s arrival. “We call on all parties to engage constructively and find a lasting solution to the current crisis.”
Analysts predict that the ECOWAS delegation’s visit could pave the way for a return to constitutional order in Guinea-Bissau. However, the situation remains fluid, and the success of the mediation efforts will depend on the willingness of all parties to compromise.
Source: thevoiceofafrica.com
