President Muhammadu Buhari, on Sunday in Doha, called on Chadian political leaders to show restraint and patriotism by identifying with the ongoing transition to democracy programme in that country.

The president’s media aide, Garba Shehu, stated in Abuja that Mr Buhari gave the charge while speaking with the Chadian transition president and head of government, Mehmet Idris Deby-Itno.

Mr Deby-Itno visited the Nigerian president on the sidelines of the ongoing UN conference on least developed countries in Doha.

“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 groups operating from outside the country, including from Libya, even though this is a problem you inherited from your father.

“Groups that think they are strong should be patriotic, settle down and secure the country,’’ the Nigerian leader charged.

Mr Buhari thanked the Chadian leader for the visit, giving assurances that “as a good neighbour, I am prepared at any time to listen to your representations, political, security or on any other matter.’’

Earlier, President Deby-Itno said he visited Mr Buhari to say “thank you’’ to the Nigerian president for his support and that of Nigeria as Chad undertakes the transition to democracy, which he said “is going on well’’.

He wished Mr 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.’’ 

(NAN)