Lango subregion in mourning: Paramount Chief Yosam Odur Ebii passes away at 99

11 November 2025, 11:41 am

By Frank Oyugi

The Lango cultural community is enveloped in profound grief following the death of its revered Paramount Chief, Yosam Odur Ebii, who succumbed to illness on Monday morning at Lira University Teaching Hospital. At 99 years old, the elder statesman and custodian of Lango traditions leaves behind a legacy of wisdom, unity, and steadfast guardianship that spanned over two decades, marking the end of an era for one of Uganda’s most enduring cultural institutions.

Born in 1926 in Apac District, Odur Ebii ascended to the throne as Won Nyaci me Lango in 2003, elected by the Council of Lango clan heads after the restoration of cultural institutions in Uganda. His reign was characterised by a calm demeanor and an unyielding commitment to preserving Lango heritage amid the subregion’s turbulent history, including the devastating LRA insurgency in the early 2000s. As a mediator extraordinaire, he bridged divides between warring clans, facilitated peace during conflict, and championed customary laws that addressed deep-seated social ills.

News of his passing, confirmed by the Lango Cultural Foundation (LCF), has triggered an outpouring of tributes across Lango’s districts—from Lira to Apac, Oyam, and beyond. Flags at cultural centers fly at half-mast, and impromptu gatherings of clan leaders, elders, and youth have filled the air with somber reflections and traditional dirges. “Mzee Odur was more than a chief; he was the heartbeat of Lango, a father whose counsel steadied us through storms,” said Eng. James Robert Ajal, Prime Minister of the LCF, in a statement urging unity in remembrance.

A life of service amid succession struggles

Odur Ebii’s tenure was not without challenges. In recent years, the Lango cultural leadership grappled with factionalism, including a 2017 splinter group led by Eng. Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune, which culminated in rival claims and court battles. A landmark October 31, 2024, ruling by the Lira High Court annulled the elections of both Okune and another contender, Ambassador Dickson Ogwang Okul, ordering the government to re-gazette Odur Ebii as the legitimate Won Nyaci. This decision, however, sparked tensions, with Gender Minister Betty Amongi initially questioning his reinstatement in November 2024.

Despite these upheavals, Odur Ebii remained a beacon of resilience. In October 2023, he announced plans to retire in 2024, initiating a succession process that aimed to unify the divided house. His efforts to install byelaws combating child marriage, domestic violence, and defilement underscored his progressive vision, particularly in advocating for women’s and children’s rights—issues close to his heart as a grandfather and mentor.

Minister Amongi, in a heartfelt tribute, described Odur Ebii as a “visionary leader who dedicated his life to safeguarding the cultural heritage of Lango.” She highlighted his role in convening clan leaders to fortify governance structures and promote cultural values. “He brought together our people to establish strong foundations and protected our traditions against erosion. Let us unite as a community to pay tribute to our elder and ensure he receives the send-off he deserves,” Amongi urged, calling for harmony in the subregion.

Tributes pour in: A call for unity

Across Lango, voices from all walks of life echo the chief’s profound impact. Joyce Akello, a community leader in Lira, recounted how Odur Ebii’s interventions during the insurgency provided solace to displaced families. “In the IDP camps, his words were medicine for broken spirits. He taught us that unity is our greatest weapon,” she shared, her eyes welling with tears during a vigil at the Lango Cultural Centre.

Religious leaders, who played a pivotal role in reconciling factions in December 2023, have organised joint prayers for the late chief. “Yosam Odur Ebii embodied the Lango spirit of resilience and forgiveness.

Youth groups, often at the forefront of cultural revival, have mobilized online campaigns with hashtags like #RestInPeaceWonNyaci and #LegacyOfOdurEbii, sharing stories of his mentorship. One young activist from Oyam District posted: “He showed us that tradition isn’t frozen in time—it’s a tool for progress. Lango weeps, but we rise stronger.

Government Chief Whip Denis Hamson OBua has meanwhile disclosed that the office of the president will take over the burial of the fallen former paramount chief which is now slated for 22nd November 2025.