Ubong Sampson – Uyo
Following Sunday’s event in the Republic of Guinea suspected to be a coup d’ètat, the Nigerian government has called for the immediate restoration of order in the country.
A statement by its Foreign Affairs Ministry said the country’s government is saddened by the “apparent coup d’ètat” in Guinea, which the statement claimed, is in clear violation of the ECOWAS protocol on good governance and democracy.
Condemning the act which it described as an unconstitutional change of government, the statement further called on those behind the coup to ensure protection of all lives and properties, while immediately restoring constitutional order in the country.
Reports filtering from the Republic of Guinea on Sunday had it that some unnamed soldiers had claimed taking over government from President Alpha Condè in the country, bothering their reasons on rampant corruption, mismanagement and poverty.
Another report also has it that the president, 83, had, last year, altered the constitution to allow him run for a third term.
Calling themselves the National Committee for Reconciliation and Development, the group of soldiers said the constitution had been dissolved and that there would be consultations to create a new and more inclusive one.
Numerous reports claimed the coup was led by an elite unit headed by a former French legionnaire, Lt Col Mamady Doumbouya.
In one video spotted online, soldiers were asking President Condé to confirm he was unharmed, but he had refused to respond.
Those behind the coup had declared all land and air borders closed for a week.
However, according to the defence ministry, forces loyal to the president have “contained the threat and repelled the group of assailants”.
Earlier, the only bridge connecting the mainland to the Kaloum peninsular, which houses most ministries and the presidential palace was sealed off, while many soldiers, some heavily armed, were posted around the palace, a military source had hinted
There are unconfirmed reports that three soldiers have been killed.
Following the news, opposition supporters and activists were seen taking to the streets in celebration.
