Unique News Report: Nigeria Denounces Gabon Coup Leader’s Inauguration as Interim President
In a bold and unequivocal statement, the Federal Government of Nigeria has voiced its strong disapproval of the recent inauguration of Gabonese General Brice Oligui Nguema as Gabon’s interim President. This significant development occurred on August 30, 2023, following Nguema’s successful coup that ended the Bongo dynasty’s 55-year rule.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented by spokesperson Francisca Omayuli, has called for an immediate return to democracy in Gabon, citing concerns about the lack of a clear transition plan. General Nguema, upon assuming office, pledged to uphold the republic and committed to organizing elections after an unspecified transition period.
The Nigerian government’s statement underlines the potential for heightened discontent among Gabon’s political class due to the inauguration’s perceived lack of transparency and detailed transition plans.
In a section of the statement, it was articulated, “Nigeria joins the international community in urging a swift return to democratic constitutional order, which would serve to quell dissension and rebuild trust and confidence among the Gabonese electorate.”
The statement further emphasized that coups d’état are regressive and fail to address the root causes of problems. Nigeria views the Gabonese coup as an unfortunate setback for Africa, particularly when the continent is striving to bolster democratic principles in line with the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
With unwavering commitment, the Federal Government of Nigeria affirmed its readiness to collaborate with other democratically elected African governments in sanctioning those responsible for unconstitutional changes of government, in accordance with the African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance. Their overarching objective is to ensure that democracy thrives throughout the African continent, ultimately benefitting its people.
