African leaders react to the death of Chadian President, Idriss Déby
The unfortunate death of Chad’s President, Idriss Déby has attracted reactions from some Africans, including heads of states such as President Buhari of Nigeria and Adama Barrow of The Gambia.
In sympathy, President Buhari recalled efforts by the late President towards fight against insurgency in Nigeria; he stated that, “I’m deeply shocked and devastated by the sudden death of President Idriss Deby on the battlefront, defending the sovereignty of his country. The late President played a very active role in our regional joint collaboration in the military campaign against Boko Haram terrorists.”
Buhari added that, “He was a friend of Nigeria who enthusiastically lent his hand to our efforts to defeat the murderous Boko Haram terrorists that have posed grave security challenges not only for Nigeria, but also our African neighbours, particularly Chad, Cameroon and Niger Republic.”
“The death of President Deby will surely create a big vacuum in the efforts to jointly confront the Boko Haram terrorists and the Islamic State West Africa Province. We must now strive to mobilize even greater collaboration to defeat the terrorists.” He stated further, adding that, “on behalf of the government and people of Nigeria, I am extending deepest condolences to the people of Chad, and their country’s new leadership.”
Adama Barrow of The Gambia equally amplified the security efforts of the deceased president; “news of the death of President Idriss Deby Itno of the Republic of Tchad is sad and shocking. His immense effort to bring lasting peace in the Sahel region will be missed. I pray for his gentle soul to rest in perfect peace” he said.
The 68-year old Idriss Déby who ruled Chad for 30 years was shot by militant troops on the battlefront after results of the country’s recent elections project a sixth term win for him. His son, Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno has been named interim President for the next 18 months supported by a military council.
