On November 20, 1999, the Nigerian military launched a devastating operation in Odi, a predominantly Ijaw town in Bayelsa State, following the murder of 12 police officers by local militia. The soldiers aimed to capture the perpetrators, but the operation escalated into a large-scale assault as the gang member used the civilians as cover.
Troops razed most of the town, leading to significant civilian casualties, with estimates ranging from 375 to over 900 deaths. In fact, some unofficial reports put the casualty figures at about 2,500. The military justified its actions as necessary for suppressing armed resistance.
Later in 2013, the Federal High Court ordered the Nigerian government to pay ₦37.6 billion in compensation to the victims. However, an out-of-court settlement reduced this to ₦15 billion, which was paid in 2014 under President Goodluck Jonathan's administration.
The massacre inspired some creative works, including the popular song ''Dem Mama'' sang by famous Bayelsan musician, Timaya who referred to the mass killing in his state during the invasion.
Other key events on this day
1. British consulate and bank bombed in Istanbul murdering 27 - 2003
2. Queen Elizabeth's home Windsor Castle caught fire - 1992
3. Afghanistan President, Babrak Karmal fled the country- 1986
4. Egyptian President Sadat became the first Arab leader to address Israeli Knesset - 1977
5. Britain declared war on Holland - 1780
6. Princess Elizabeth married Philip Mountbatten - 1947
7. Windows 1.0 released - 1985
8. The UN adopted the declaration of the Rights of the Child - 1959
9. Nuremberg trials of top Nazi party members liable for wars crimes during WWII began - 1945
10. Major riots, manslaughter, and pillage began in Kaduna, Abuja, and Lagos during the Miss World event, about 250 killed - 2002
11. Nigeria first plane crash occurred in Lagos and killed all 87 passengers and crew on board - 1969.
Comments