President Bola Tinubu is currently engaged in discussions with former President Goodluck Jonathan at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Jonathan arrived around noon and was received by President Tinubu before the two leaders convened for a closed-door meeting.
While specific details of the meeting have not been disclosed, it is believed to be related to Goodluck Jonathan’s role as the Special Envoy of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
He is leading mediation efforts in Mali, which has been under military rule since a coup in August 2020 that removed President Ibrahim Keita from power.
In September 2023, the Malian military government announced a delay in the presidential election, originally scheduled for February 2024, intended to restore civilian rule.
This postponement is attributed to technical issues, including the adoption of a new constitution and a review of electoral lists. Additionally, a dispute with the French company Idemia, involved in the census process, has contributed to the delay.
The new dates for the presidential election will be communicated at a later time, as affirmed by government spokesman Abdoulaye Maiga.
In January 2022, the Economic Community of West African States imposed sanctions on Mali when the junta led by Asimi Goita indicated plans to remain in power for up to five years.
Under regional pressure, the junta committed to holding the election in February, leading to the lifting of trade and financial sanctions by ECOWAS in July 2022.
