Lango Sub-region and the wider cultural community in Uganda are in mourning following the death of their former Paramount Chief, His Royal Highness Yosam Odur Ebii, who passed away this morning at Lira University Teaching Hospital at the age of 99, as confirmed by his son.
The sad news was broken by Anthony Olobo Odur, who revealed that his father passed away peacefully at 4:20 AM, taking his last breath in his arms.
“Mzee Yosam Odur Ebii died today in the morning at 4:20 am. He died on my hand,” Olobo said.
He also noted that the late chief had been under medical care, having been taken for a review at Lira University Teaching Hospital just two days prior.
Born in the early 1920s, Yosam Odur Ebii rose to prominence as a respected elder and unifier in Lango.
In 2003, he was enthroned as the Won Nyaci of the Lango Cultural Foundation (LCF), becoming the official cultural head of the Lango people.
For over two decades, Mzee Odur Ebii provided steady leadership during some of the region’s most difficult times, including the post-insurgency recovery period in Northern Uganda.
He was widely recognized for championing peace, reconciliation, and cultural revival following years of disruption caused by the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) insurgency.
Mzee Odur Ebii’s reign was marked by advocacy for education, cultural identity, and moral restoration.
He frequently urged young people to respect elders, uphold discipline, and take pride in their Lango heritage.
He collaborated with government leaders and development partners to promote social welfare, youth empowerment, and community-based development programs in the Lango Sub-region.
Under his guidance, the Lango Cultural Foundation became a key platform for cultural dialogue, traditional justice, and social unity.
Beyond his cultural duties, Odur Ebii was known for his humility, deep spirituality, and wisdom, inspiring leaders across Uganda’s traditional and political spheres.
The late former Won Nyaci’s health had deteriorated in recent months, prompting his transfer to Lira University Teaching Hospital, where he received specialized care until his passing.
His death has drawn widespread messages of condolence from cultural leaders, government officials, and citizens across the Lango Sub-region.
“We have lost a father, a peacemaker, and the moral compass of our people,” said a member of the Lango Cultural Council. “His legacy of unity and wisdom will continue to guide us.”
The Lango Cultural Council is expected to convene an emergency meeting to plan the burial arrangements and issue an official statement.
Tributes continue to pour in from across Uganda, and national leaders are expected to pay their respects in the coming days.
Mzee Yosam Odur Ebii is survived by several children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His wife, Imat Victoria Agong, passed away in 2011.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
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