The Chadian government has firmly rejected allegations from the United Nations that civilian casualties resulted from airstrikes targeting Boko Haram in the Lake Chad basin. During a press briefing held on May 14, officials demanded verifiable evidence and offered to facilitate an independent investigation mission.
In a statement issued days earlier, the UN claimed that airstrikes allegedly involving Nigerian and Chadian forces had killed approximately one hundred civilians in the northeast of Nigeria and Chad, including some during operations against Boko Haram. The UN called for an immediate inquiry into the incidents.
Government responds with strong denial
Gassim Chérif Mahamat, Minister of Communication and government spokesperson, dismissed the accusations as baseless. « We are taken aback by these serious allegations, » he stated. « They appear designed to undermine the credibility of the Chadian Army, which remains the frontline force in the fight against terrorism across the Sahel and the Lake Chad region. This is a proven, professional military that has consistently delivered results. »
He further asserted that no civilians or fishermen were present in the areas targeted by Chadian air operations. « To date, no credible evidence supports these claims, » he emphasized. « Chad is prepared to conduct its own thorough investigations and welcomes the involvement of the United Nations or any international body to carry out independent on-the-ground assessments. »
Security measures and long-term strategy
The government spokesperson highlighted the ongoing state of emergency in the region, designed to protect local populations and maintain stability. Military and security personnel are permanently deployed to counter threats and ensure public safety.
« The fight against Boko Haram is a dual effort, » he explained. « It includes robust security measures and sustainable socio-economic development. The government has invested significantly in the region to combat radicalization driven by poverty and inadequate infrastructure. »
Chad continues to bear the heaviest burden in this conflict, both in terms of human cost and military commitment, stressed Gassim Chérif Mahamat. He underscored the country’s active cooperation with Nigeria and other regional partners in combating the jihadist threat.
He pointed out that Boko Haram launched attacks on Chadian military positions on May 4 and 6, resulting in casualties on both sides. From N’Djamena’s perspective, these violent acts are the work of Boko Haram itself, not the Chadian Armed Forces.
