On September 22, the Plateaux-ouest region of Togo held religious offices to commemorate the anniversary of the September 23, 1986, terrorist attack. The ceremonies, which included prayers and gatherings, brought together celebrants, faithful, political and administrative authorities, prefects, mayors, defense and security force officials, and several civil personalities. The events took place in the prefectural capitals of Kloto, Agou, Kpélé, and Danyi.
The offices, which comprised Muslim prayers, Catholic masses, and Protestant worship services, aimed to honor the victims of the 1986 attack and pray for peace, security, and social cohesion in the country. The faithful offered prayers for the souls of the victims, considered martyrs of peace, and for social cohesion in Togo, Africa, and the world. They also prayed for the protection of defense and security forces.
In mosques in Agou, Danyi-Apéyémé, Adéta, and Kpalimé, imams paid tribute to the victims and prayed for divine protection over the authorities and the nation. They specifically asked Allah to watch over the life and health of Faure Gnassingbé, President of the Council. The imams' prayers sought to promote peace and stability in the region.
In Catholic parishes, celebrations featured messages from the Book of Proverbs and the Gospel of Saint Luke. Priests invited the faithful to place their lives in the hands of the Almighty and cultivate values of peace and fraternity. The messages emphasized the importance of unity and solidarity in the face of adversity.
In Kpélé, Agou, Kloto, and Danyi's evangelical and Presbyterian churches, pastors dedicated their prayers to the memory of the victims and the pursuit of peace. The prayers focused on strengthening social cohesion, solidarity, and living together among different components of society. The events brought together people from various backgrounds in a show of unity.
The ceremonies were attended by local authorities, including prefects and mayors, who demonstrated their commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region. The events also highlighted the importance of interfaith dialogue and cooperation in achieving social cohesion. The participants' prayers and messages conveyed a sense of hope and resilience.
The commemoration of the 1986 terrorist attack serves as a reminder of the need for continued vigilance and cooperation in the face of security challenges. The events in the Plateaux-ouest region of Togo underscore the role of faith and community in promoting peace and stability. The authorities and citizens alike have reiterated their commitment to working together to achieve a more peaceful and secure future.
Key points
- Togo holds annual commemoration for 1986 terrorist attack victims
- Events promote peace, security, and social cohesion in the country
- Interfaith dialogue and cooperation emphasized during ceremonies
