Religious services were held in the Kara region of Togo on September 22 to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the 1986 terrorist aggression. The services were attended by local authorities, including prefects and mayors, and were conducted by various religious leaders. In the Kozah prefecture, Muslim prayers were led by Bello Chafiou, secretary general of the Union musulmane de la Kara, at the Kara central mosque.
The Catholic mass was celebrated at the Saints-Pierre-et-Paul cathedral parish by Curate Patrice Limdèyou, while the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Togo service was led by catechist Botchona Essozimna. During the services, participants prayed for the victims of the aggression, for peace and social cohesion in Togo, and for the protection of the country's defense and security forces. They also paid tribute to former President Gnassingbé Eyadèma, who was the primary target of the 1986 aggression.
In the Assoli prefecture, the Catholic mass was celebrated at the Saint-Thomas-Apôtre church in Bafilo, with Prefect Lieutenant-Colonel Viagbo Mensah in attendance. The service was presided over by Curate Patrice Morou, who urged the congregation to pray daily for Togo's protection from terrorist aggression. Similar services were held in other prefectures, including Bassar, Kéran, Binah, Doufelgou, and Dankpen.
In Bassar, the services were presided over by Imam El Hadj Batina Aliou, Reverend Father Marc Lakassi, and Reverend Pastor Moïse Akoué. The events were attended by Prefect Lieutenant-Colonel Asiah Hodabalo and local authorities. The religious leaders prayed for the defense and security forces to effectively protect the country's territory.
In Kéran, services were held at the mosque and Pentecost church, with Prefect Douti N'Sarma Mabiba and local officials in attendance. The regional president of the Christian Council of Kara, Pastor Yoakal Sambo, and Imam El Hadj Seydou Zouloukoufoulou called on the faithful to respect religious values and authority to promote peaceful coexistence.
The nationwide services were part of a larger commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the 1986 terrorist aggression. They reflected the country's continued efforts to promote peace, security, and social cohesion. Togo's authorities have reiterated their commitment to protecting the nation from terrorist threats.
The 1986 aggression resulted in significant loss of life and had a profound impact on Togo's development. The commemorations serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving peace and stability in the country. KEY_POINT: Togo held religious services to mark the 40th anniversary of the 1986 terrorist aggression. KEY_POINT: Services were attended by local authorities and conducted by various religious leaders. KEY_POINT: Participants prayed for victims, peace, and protection of defense forces.
