Lira, Uganda | The Lango subregion mourned the loss of several influential leaders and personalities in 2025, marking the end of an era for many communities across Northern Uganda.
Retired Colonel Tony Otoa
Retired Colonel Tony Otoa, also known as Tonny Ogwal Otoa, passed away on April 28 at the age of 85.
A former military officer and political figure, Col. Otoa served in the Uganda National Liberation Army (UNLA) and was a key logistician and ammunition technician loyal to former President Milton Obote.
In 1996, he was nominated by President Yoweri Museveni to represent the Uganda People’s Defence Forces in the Sixth Parliament.
After retiring from active military service in 2005, Col. Otoa continued to play a pivotal role in Lango cultural affairs, serving as Prime Minister of Lango Cultural Foundation between 2011 and 2013 and as the Awitong (clan chief) of Abwor clan. He also chaired the Lira District Service Commission.
Col. Otoa is survived by his widow and 10 children, including Tony Otoa Jr., a leading professional in Uganda’s oil and gas sector.
Yosam Odur Ebii
The former Won Nyaci of the Lango people, Yosam Odur Ebii, died on November 10, 2025, at the age of 99 after a prolonged illness.
As the former cultural head of the Lango Cultural Foundation from 2003 until his retirement in 2024, Odur Ebii played a critical role in preserving Lango traditions and fostering unity in the post-conflict Northern Uganda.
He is celebrated for his efforts in mediating peace to end the Lord’s Resistance Army insurgency, including leading a delegation to meet Joseph Kony in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Odur Ebii also championed women’s and children’s rights and established the Aya Victoria Vocational School in honour of his late wife.
He was laid to rest on November 22, 2025, in Teboke Village, Chegere Subcounty, Apac District.
The Lango Regional Special Council has announced plans to honour him with cultural monuments, a lecture series, and a cultural education centre at Lira University.
Other Notable Losses
Emmanuel “Emma” Okaka passed away in October 2025, remembered as a devoted brother and colleague, his passing drew widespread condolences and vigils from family and community members.
In September 2025, Lillian Akaca, a resident of Lira City, passed away. Her requiem service was held on September 21, with burial following as per family arrangements. She is survived by her husband, JB Lucky Akaca.
The Lango subregion continues to reflect on the legacies of these figures, whose contributions to culture, politics, and social development have left an indelible mark on Northern Uganda.
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