If I knew Shekau’s whereabouts, I won't tell Nigeria – Chadian President

The Chadian President, Idris Deby, who earlier this year was quoted as saying he knew the whereabouts of wanted Boko Haram leader, Abubakar Shekau, has backtracked on his claim while also insisting on keeping any possible knowledge of the location of the terrorist to himself.

''I cannot tell you today that I know where Shekau is hiding and even if I knew I won't tell you,'' he said.

Mr. Deby told journalists on Monday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja after a meeting with President Jonathan.

On Chad and Nigeria cooperation against Boko Haram

He said, ''two armies that is the Nigerian army and the Chadian Army are working separately in the field. They are not undertaking joint operation. If they were operating joint operation probably they would have achieved more results.''

On whether Boko Haram has been defeated.

He said, ''But they have been tremendously weakened. I did not want to wait and come during the inauguration of the new government. I thought I should come to consult with Mr. President, to congratulate him and to have this exchange and have overview of what we have been able to achieve in the fight against Boko Haram.''

On the 2015 general elections.

He said, ''We all know that elections in Africa is always contested but Mr. President demonstrated a lot of statesmanship, that he is a real democrat by conceding and congratulating the President-elect. You all know that when Nigeria sneezes, the neighbouring countries catch cold. If Mr. President had not taken that laudable initiative you all know what would have happened now. Nigeria is still living in peace, you all are living in peace and that would not have happened but for that laudable initiative he took. So I came to congratulate him for leaving a legacy not only for Nigeria but for Africa as a whole.''