Issa Tchiroma has been in Gambia since November 2025. The Cameroonian opposition leader, who still claims victory in the presidential election of October 12, 2025, went into exile after promising to liberate Cameroon by "all means".

Banjul confirmed his arrival on Gambian territory. It said it welcomed him for "humanitarian reasons".

Last Tuesday, the situation of the Cameroonian opposition leader was discussed at a press conference led by Gambian Foreign Minister Serign Modou Njie.

"Mr. Bakary's presence in Gambia was facilitated by the Federal Republic of Nigeria."

The authorities revealed that it was the Federal Republic of Nigeria that "facilitated" his arrival in The Gambia. Banjul subsequently notified him that his stay would be subject to certain conditions.

He is, for example, forbidden from launching attacks from Gambia or causing any instability in Cameroon, emphasizes the head of Gambian diplomacy, convinced that he would have gotten into trouble if he had stayed in his country.

"He fled because he knew he would be arrested and brought to justice in Cameroon," said Serign Modou Njie.

"If Cameroon, Bakary himself, and Nigeria seek support from The Gambia..."

The official also indicated that his country would not intervene in the dispute between Mr. Tchiroma and the Cameroonian government. However, he is willing to assist either party should they wish to engage in dialogue.

"If Cameroon, Bakary himself and Nigeria request Gambia's support to facilitate the opening of negotiations, we will get in touch with our international partners," said Serign Modou Njie.