Chad refutes UN allegations of civilian deaths in anti-Boko Haram strikes
The Chadian government firmly denies allegations from the United Nations that airstrikes targeting Boko Haram in the Lake Chad region resulted in civilian casualties. During a press briefing, officials demanded concrete evidence and offered to facilitate an independent investigation.
UN reports raise concerns over civilian deaths
On Sunday, a UN statement claimed that airstrikes allegedly carried out by Nigerian and Chadian forces had killed around 100 civilians in northeastern Nigeria and Chad. The statement called for an immediate investigation into the incidents.
Chadian government dismisses accusations as baseless
Gassim Chérif Mahamat, Government Spokesperson and Minister of Communication, called the allegations “unfounded and surprising.” He emphasized that Chad’s military, a key player in the Sahel’s fight against terrorism, operates with strict professionalism. “These accusations are an attempt to undermine our efforts,” he stated. “The Chadian Armed Forces have a proven track record in combating extremist threats.”
He further asserted that the targeted areas contained “no civilians or fishermen,” adding that no verifiable evidence supports the UN’s claims. “We are prepared to conduct our own investigations and welcome any international body to examine the situation on the ground,” he added.
Security measures strengthened amid ongoing threats
The government stressed that emergency measures in the region aim to protect civilians while neutralizing Boko Haram’s threat. Military and security personnel remain deployed round the clock to ensure stability.
Chad’s counter-terrorism strategy combines military action with socio-economic development to address the root causes of extremism. The state has invested heavily in infrastructure and poverty reduction to prevent radicalization in vulnerable communities.
“Chad bears the heaviest burden in this fight,” Mahamat noted. “Our soldiers and citizens face constant danger, yet we remain committed to regional cooperation with Nigeria and other neighboring nations to dismantle Boko Haram.”
He pointed out that recent attacks by the jihadist group on Chadian military positions—resulting in casualties on both sides—highlighted the persistent threat. “Boko Haram’s violence, not our operations, is the real cause of suffering in the Lake Chad basin,” he concluded.
