The Togolese people commemorated the 40th anniversary of the 1986 terrorist attack on September 23 with memorial services held across the Maritime region. On September 22, catholic masses, protestant services, and muslim prayers were held in the prefectural capitals of Tsévié, Tabligbo, Vogan, Aného, Afagnan, and Kévé. The services were attended by political, administrative, military, traditional, and religious authorities. The ceremonies honored the victims of the 1986 attack and sought to promote national unity and peace.
The memorial services featured prayers for the eternal rest of those who lost their lives in the 1986 attack. The clergy also prayed for peace, national unity, and the development of Togo. They emphasized the importance of forgiveness, tolerance, faith, and patriotism in promoting social cohesion and peace. The religious leaders called on the faithful to respect institutions and work towards a peaceful and prosperous nation. The events highlighted the need for collective remembrance and transmission of Togo's history to future generations.
In Tsévié, the central mosque hosted a ceremony where Maritime region governor Taïrou Bagbiègue prayed for Allah's guidance and support for the authorities. He urged citizens to exhibit fraternity, tolerance, and patriotism, and sought Allah's blessings for the nation's progress. The governor's remarks underscored the significance of interfaith dialogue and cooperation in promoting national development.
At Tabligbo, Yoto prefect Lt-Col. Djossou Agossa described the memorial services as moments of reflection, communion, and transmission of collective memory. He encouraged the population to remain committed to peace and contribute to preserving security and social cohesion. The prefect's comments highlighted the role of local authorities in promoting peace and stability.
In Kévé, authorities stressed the importance of transmitting the memory of this painful event in Togo's history to young generations. They sought to preserve collective memory and reinforce attachment to peace, unity, and solidarity values. The events in Kévé demonstrated the commitment of local leaders to promoting national unity and social cohesion.
The memorial services in Aného focused on soothing hearts and consolidating fraternity among Togolese people. The clergy prayed for God to eliminate malice and promote kindness within the population. These ceremonies served as moments of remembrance, reflection, and sensitization on the need to preserve peace and national cohesion.
The 40th anniversary commemorations concluded with a renewed commitment to promoting peace, unity, and social cohesion in Togo. Key points from the commemorations include:
Key points
- Togo commemorated the 40th anniversary of the 1986 terrorist attack with memorial services across the Maritime region.
- The ceremonies promoted national unity, peace, and social cohesion.
- Authorities emphasized the importance of transmitting collective memory to future generations.
