The Togolese nation commemorated the 40th anniversary of the September 23, 1986, terrorist aggression, which saw a commando team infiltrate Lomé with the intention of destabilizing the country and assassinating President General Gnassingbé Eyadema. On September 22, 2026, a Muslim prayer was held at the Kadhafi Mosque in Lomé II, attended by President of the Senate Barry Moussa Barqué, government members, deputies, senators, and other dignitaries. The prayer aimed to invoke Allah's blessing on Togo and emphasize unity, peace, vigilance, and support for the army.
The 1986 attack was a painful memory that still resonates today, marking a significant event in Togo's history. On the night of September 23-24, 1986, a heavily armed commando team infiltrated Lomé, targeting strategic buildings, including military installations. The Togolese Armed Forces (FAT), led by General Eyadema, responded effectively, capturing some terrorists and seizing a substantial amount of war booty. The attack resulted in several dozen deaths, both among the assailants and civilians.
Imam Ayoub Morou, principal imam of the Kadhafi Mosque, highlighted the significance of the prayer, which aimed to praise Allah for his benevolence towards Togo. The imam emphasized that it was through Allah's strength and power that the FAT had the courage and strength to overcome the assailants and establish peace in the country. The prayer also commemorated the memory of those who fell in the line of duty, protecting the nation.
During the prayer, Imam Morou implored Allah to envelop Togo in peace, protecting it from acts of violence, troubles, and terrorism. He requested that Allah continue to safeguard the country's leaders and people, emphasizing the importance of peace as a fundamental pillar for spiritual and social life. The imam also asked for Allah's mercy on the martyrs who sacrificed themselves for the nation.
The commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the 1986 terrorist aggression served as a reminder of the importance of unity and vigilance for peace and stability in Togo. The event highlighted the need to preserve peace at all costs, as it is a prerequisite for development. The Togolese people have consistently demonstrated their resilience in the face of terrorism and attempts at destabilization.
The Muslim prayer was attended by high-ranking officials, including President of the Senate Barry Moussa Barqué, government members, deputies, and senators. The event demonstrated the government's commitment to promoting peace and stability in the country. President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé has continued to reinforce the values of peace and stability established by his predecessor, General Gnassingbé Eyadema.
The 40th anniversary of the 1986 terrorist aggression has become a symbol of the Togolese people's resistance against terrorism and attempts at destabilization. The commemoration serves as a call to unity, vigilance, and support for the army, ensuring that Togo remains a haven of peace and stability. The country's leaders and people continue to work together to promote peace and development.
Key points
- Togo commemorates 40 years since 1986 terrorist attack with Muslim prayer.
- Event aims to promote unity, peace, and support for the army.
- Anniversary serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving peace and stability.
