By DAYO ADESULU
Deadly Assault on N’Djamena’s Presidential Complex
On Wednesday evening, gunmen launched an attack on Chad’s presidential complex in the capital, N’Djamena, triggering a fierce battle that resulted in 19 deaths, including one security personnel, the government reported. The attackers, numbering 24, were quickly overpowered by the presidential guard.
Attack Details and Government Response
According to Foreign Minister and government spokesman Abderaman Koulamallah, 18 assailants were killed, six were injured, and the remaining survivors were arrested in a disoriented state. Koulamallah dismissed early suspicions of terrorism, describing the attackers as intoxicated and poorly coordinated individuals rather than members of a jihadist group.
Hours after the assault, Koulamallah assured the public that “the situation is completely under control,” emphasizing that the destabilization attempt was thwarted.
Suspicions of Boko Haram Involvement
While some security sources initially speculated that the attackers were linked to the Boko Haram jihadist group, Koulamallah later clarified that the group was “probably not” involved. The assault occurred in a country frequently targeted by Boko Haram, particularly in the volatile Lake Chad region.
Impact on N’Djamena
The attack caused panic in the city, with roads to the presidency blocked, tanks deployed, and armed police stationed at key points. Civilians rushed out of the city center in vehicles and motorcycles as gunfire erupted around 7:45 pm local time.
Diplomatic Context
The attack coincided with a high-profile meeting between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno earlier that day. President Deby was in the complex at the time but was unharmed.
Chad, under military rule since 2021, has faced domestic unrest and regional conflicts, including accusations of interference in Sudan’s ongoing civil war. Additionally, Chad recently ended its military accord with France, marking a shift in its international alliances.
Chad’s Turbulent Political Landscape
The assault comes shortly after Chad’s controversial general elections, which were boycotted by opposition groups amid allegations of fraud. President Deby, who succeeded his father in 2021, has faced criticism over his administration’s efforts to consolidate power and manage the nation’s oil wealth amidst widespread poverty.
