The Togolese government marked the 40th anniversary of the 1986 terrorist aggression with commemorative ceremonies across the Plateaux-Est region. On September 23, the Governor of the Plateaux region, Dadja Maganawé, laid a wreath of flowers at the monument to the dead in Atakpamé. This solemn ceremony was attended by military and civilian authorities, including the commander of the 3rd Infantry Regiment, Lieutenant-Colonel Atta Abalo.
The ceremony began with military honors rendered by a detachment of the 3rd Infantry Regiment of Témédja, led by Lieutenant Novissi Komi Hyves. A minute of silence was observed, followed by the sounding of the death knell and the execution of the national anthem. The wreath-laying ceremony was a gesture of homage to the victims of the terrorist aggression that occurred on September 23, 1986.
The event was attended by several high-ranking officials, including the Prefect of Ogou, Ekpé Kodjo Agbéko, mayors, and other authorities. Similar ceremonies were held in other prefectures of Plateaux-Est, including Notsè, Tohoun, Anié, Wawa, Akébou, Amou, and Est-Mono. These events brought together authorities and local populations to pay tribute to the victims.
In Notsè, Prefect Colonel Gnakou Alowègnim laid a wreath at the Independence Square monument in Agbaladomé, in honor of the defense and security forces, as well as civilians who fell in the line of duty. In Tohoun, Prefect Colonel Gnakouafre Yao Eindrè led a memorial service at the monument to the dead, accompanied by liturgical songs performed by a local choir.
The commemorative events were not limited to wreath-laying ceremonies. In the days leading up to the anniversary, Christian and Muslim religious services were held in various prefecture capitals to pray for the repose of the souls of the victims. These events demonstrate the importance Togolese authorities place on preserving the memory of the 1986 terrorist aggression.
The 40th anniversary of the 1986 aggression serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by Togolese citizens in the face of terrorism. The commemorative ceremonies across Plateaux-Est highlight the country's commitment to honoring its fallen heroes and promoting national unity.
The Togolese government's efforts to commemorate this dark chapter in the country's history aim to ensure that the sacrifices of the victims are not forgotten. By holding these ceremonies, authorities hope to promote a culture of remembrance and solidarity among the Togolese people.
Key points
- The Togolese government marked the 40th anniversary of the 1986 terrorist aggression with commemorative ceremonies across the Plateaux-Est region.
- The ceremonies included wreath-laying, military honors, and minutes of silence to honor the victims of the aggression.
- Similar events were held in various prefectures, bringing together authorities and local populations to pay tribute to the fallen heroes.
