“Remember that all through history, there have been tyrants and murderers, and for a time, they seem invincible. But in the end, they always fall. Always.” — Mahatma Gandhi
Today In History
1. Air strikes Killed 39 People in Nigeria
On this day in 2023, a military airstrike identified as an air component of Operation Whirl Stroke, joint military, police, and department of state security operation deployed in response to security problems in and around Nasarawa State killed 39 civilians and injured 6 others in Doma Area Local Government.
The military had explained that the airstrike was targeted at suspected terrorists in the area based on intelligence provided by security operatives in Benue State that turned out to be incorrect.
2. Tunisia’s President Fled
On this day in 2011, Tunisia’s president, Zine El Abidine Ben Ali fled his country after years of dictatorship. He was one of the leaders deposed in the Arab spring.
He was indicted for charges of money laundering, drug trafficking and violent repression of protest in absentia but he had already sought solace in Saudi Arabia with his family and that was where he spent the rest of his life. He died in 2019 at age 83.
3. French Colons Resisted Algeria’s Independence
On this day in 1960, following President Charles De Gaulle’s decision to grant Algeria independence, the colons staged an insurrection known as the “barricade week’ against the decision.
Although the protest gained widespread support from Europe and the police and army, Gaulle was however able to forestall the uproar and eventually prevent further escalation.
4. President Gnassingbé Eyadéma Of Togo Survived Plane Crash
On this day in 1974, President Gnassingbé Eyadéma Of Togo survived plane crash near the village of Sarakawa in northern Togo. The president had been aboard Togo Air Force Douglas C-47 Skytrain with other notable political figures enroute to his village Pya before the crash.
Eyadéma, who wanted to portray himself as a possessor of mystical powers, announced himself as the sole survivor of the crash and concealed the fact that there were other survivors.
5. Domodedovo International Airport bombing
On this day in 2011, a suicide bombing occurred at the international arrival hall of Moscow’s Domodedovo International, in Domodedovsky District, Moscow Oblast. The bomb reportely claimed 37 lives and injured 173 others. The Russian reported that the bombing by an identified 20-yr Old was targeted at foreigners.
6. United States Department Of Homeland Security Officially Began Operations
On this day in 2003, United States Department Of Homeland Security officially began operations. The department was established for anti-terrorism, border security, immigration and customs, cyber security, and disaster prevention and management.
