President Bola Tinubu has extended his congratulations to Mahamat Déby, the President-elect of the Republic of Chad, following his victory in the recent elections, News About Nigeria reports.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, on Sunday, Tinubu expressed Nigeria’s commitment to working closely with Chad to enhance peace, security, and shared prosperity for the mutual benefit of both nations.
Déby’s victory was confirmed by Chad’s electoral authority, which announced provisional results showing him winning with over 61 percent of the vote.
However, his main rival, Prime Minister Succès Masra, who garnered only 18.5 percent of the votes, has contested the results, alleging potential manipulation.
President Tinubu commended Chad’s commitment to democracy and orderly transitions, pointing out the importance of sustained friendly cooperation between Nigeria and Chad.
He wished President-elect Déby success in his service to the Chadian people.
The elections in Chad was held on May 6, 2024, marking the country’s transition from military to democratic rule following the death of long-time leader Idriss Déby in April 2021.
Mahamat Idriss Déby, the late leader’s son, assumed leadership under a transitional military council and later became a central figure in the elections, pledging to continue his father’s legacy.
However, the electoral process was marred by political tension and scepticism regarding its transparency and fairness.
Prime Minister Masra accused the authorities of planning to manipulate the outcome, urging citizens to resist unjust orders.
Despite promises of an 18-month transition to democratic elections, the transitional council led by President-elect Déby extended its mandate.
Constitutional changes approved in December 2023 aimed at decentralising power and adjusting presidential term limits have also raised concerns about the country’s political direction.
