Apac, Uganda: Vice President Jessica Alupo on Saturday led thousands of mourners at Tenoke Primary School in Apac District as the Lango community bid farewell to retired Won Nyaci (Paramount Chief) Mzee Yosam Odur Ebii, who died on November 10, 2025, at the age of 99.
Representing President Yoweri Museveni, Alupo delivered the Head of State’s condolence message to the bereaved family, the Lango Cultural Foundation, clan leaders, royal family and the people of Lango.
President Museveni described the late Odur as one of Uganda’s most patriotic cultural leaders who provided stability, wisdom and unity over his two-decade reign as the Paramount Chief.
“During his time, the late Odur steered Lango to greater heights. He has gone at a time when we still needed him most,” Museveni said in the message. “I extend heartfelt condolences to his family and all the people of Lango.”
Museveni reminded mourners that the restoration of cultural institutions in 1994 was meant to safeguard Uganda’s heritage and shield cultural identity from negative external influences. He urged traditional leaders to protect customs and ensure continuity of African values.
The President thanked Lango for supporting the NRM Government and upholding the peace secured by the National Resistance Army.
Mzee Odur was enthroned in 2003 and became a key figure in Lango’s post-war recovery efforts, promoting reconciliation, cultural identity and education after years of insurgency in northern Uganda.
VP Alupo described the late Paramount Chief as a personal friend and a champion of peace, unity and moral restoration. She said Odur’s leadership was marked by a strong commitment to the cultural rebirth of Lango following two decades of conflict.
Lango Prime Minister and acting Won Nyaci, Fred Ogwal Oyie, said the late Odur consistently urged young people to respect elders, uphold discipline and take pride in their heritage. Under his leadership, the Lango Cultural Foundation became an influential pillar for cultural dialogue and traditional justice.
Government Chief Whip Hamson Obua said Lango mourns a leader whose impact transcended culture and politics, while State Minister for Gender and Culture Peace Mutuuzo said Odur’s legacy will continue to guide Uganda on cultural preservation.
Bishop Alfred Olwa of Lango Diocese thanked President Museveni for according Odur an official burial, saying this gesture affirmed the government’s recognition of cultural institutions as national pillars of unity.
Mzee Odur Ebii is survived by children and grandchildren. His reign is remembered for humility, spiritual devotion and unwavering service to the people of Lango.
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