Buhari urges Chadian factions to back democratic transition

President Muhammadu Buhari has urged leaders of the various Chadian political factions to show restraint and patriotism by immersing themselves in the ongoing transition to democracy in their country. He made the call Sunday while speaking to the country’s transition President and Head of Government, General Mehmet Idris Deby-Itno, when he visited him on the […]

President Muhammadu Buhari has urged leaders of the various Chadian political factions to show restraint and patriotism by immersing themselves in the ongoing transition to democracy in their country.

He made the call Sunday while speaking to the country’s transition President and Head of Government, General Mehmet Idris Deby-Itno, when he visited him on the sidelines of the ongoing United Nations programme in Doha, Qatar.

Buhari said: “I watch developments in your country from a safe distance. As a close neighbour, I go to sleep and wake up with the issue on my mind.

“I sympathise with you, not only as a youth, but due to the position of some of the groups operating outside the country including Libya, even though this is a problem you inherited from your father. I am really reduced to praying on this matter. Other groups who think they are strong should be patriotic, settle down and secure their own country.”

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Buhari, in a statement by his spokesman, Garba Shehu, thanked the Chadian leader for the visit.

He gave assurances that “as a good neighbour, I am prepared at any time to listen to your representations, political, security or any other matter.”

Deby-Itno said he had come to thank Buhari for the support he provided to him and his country as they undertook the ongoing transition to democracy which he said was going well.

He wished Buhari long life and congratulated him on the ongoing democratic process in Nigeria, adding that “we hope we will continue to see you even after your departure from office.”