“The mistakes of the past, I dare not repeat. The lessons of the past, I dare not foresake. The achievements of the past, I dare not belittle. On the travails of yesteryears, lies the pleasures of today”- Anonymous
Today In History
1. Alhaji Shehu Shagari Ordered Illegal Immigrants (Mostly Ghanaians) Out Of Nigeria
On this day in 1983, Alhaji Shehu Shagari, the Nigerian President ordered the expulsion of illegal immigrants out of Nigeria.
The immigrants, mostly Ghanaians were given weeks to vacate the country. They hurriedly packed their belongings in a big silk bag with red and blue stripes, now popularly referred to as “Ghana must go”, in reference to the 1983 expulsion.
Prior to order, many Ghanaians had flooded Nigeria in search of greener pastures due to the oil boom in the 70’s, however over 700,000 Ghanaians were reported to have been expelled thereafter.
2. Major General Aguiyi-Ironsi Established The Supreme Military Council In Lagos And Suspended The constitution
On this day in 1966, Major General Aguiyi- Ironsi established the Supreme Military Council and announced the suspension of the constitution operated in the First Republic.
3. Riot Between Muslim and Christains Began In Jos
On this day in 2010, riots between Christians and Muslims began in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. The riot which continued for atleast four days led to no fewer than 300 people’s death and destruction of houses, vehicles and places of worship.
Though, this riot began on this day, the state had been plagued with several religious riots almost a decade before the 2010 attacks.
4. Former Congolese Prime Minister Patrice Lumumba Was Murdered
On this day in 1961, former Congolese Prime Minister Patrice Lumumba was executed by firing squad. His murder was a result of conspiracy by state authorities under Joseph-Désiré Mobutu and Belgian authorities. He was seen as a martyr for the Pan-African Movement.
It is worthy to note, that in 2002, Belgium formally apologized for the role it played in the conspiracy against Patrice Lumumba and his eventual execution.
5. Mount Nyiragongo Erupted In Democratic Republic Of Congo
On this day in 2002, Mount Nyiragongo erupted in Democratic Republic Of Congo after several increased volcanic activities. The eruption led to displacement of over 400,000 people and the death of about 245 people from asphyxiation by carbon dioxide and building destructions.
6. Avalanche Struck In Nyingchi
On this day in 2023, an avalanche struck in Nyingchi, China killing 28 people. The avalanche was reported to be caused by high winds and warming temperature. Rescue operations lasted for about three days with 53 people rescued from being trapped.
