The Nigerian Government has condemned in strong terms the recent developments in Cote d”Ivoire in which some members of the country’s  Armed Forces revolted against the Government.

This was contained in a statement issued late Wednesday by Laolu Akande, the special adviser on media to acting President Yemi Osinbajo.

“Nigeria expresses strong and unflinching support for the Government of President Allassane Ouattara and welcomes ongoing efforts at resolving the crisis,” the statement read.

“The Federal Government (Of Nigeria) urges the parties to the crisis to exercise maximum restraint, remain calm and continue with dialogue and negotiations with the Government of President Ouattara.

“Nigeria also urges the mutineers to return to their barracks and to refrain from any action capable of undermining the peace, security and democracy in the country.

The statement further “urges the people of Cote d’Ivoire to remain steadfast in their support for the Government and to refrain from giving support to the mutineers in the overall interest of peace, tranquillity, good order and prosperity of the country.”

The presidential spokesman further said that Acting President Yemi Osinbajo, had been engaged in phone discussions with the Ivorien President and the President of Liberia, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, who is also the current ECOWAS Chairperson, on ways towards a peaceful resolution.

In a series of conversations with both Presidents since Monday, May 15, Osinbajo reportedly expressed Nigeria’s support for the government and people of Cote d’Ivoire, and also for the sustenance of peace, security and democracy in the country.

He also noted the readiness of the Nigerian Government to work with ECOWAS and West African leaders to pursue a quick resolution of the situation.