Lira, Uganda – It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of His Royal Highness Yosam Odur Ebii, the revered Won Nyaci (Paramount Chief) of the Lango Cultural Foundation, who departed this mortal life at 4:20 am today at the age of 99.
According to his Premier, Frederick Ogwal Oyee, Mzee Odur Ebii succumbed to illness at Lira University Teaching Hospital, where he had been receiving treatment. The Lango Cultural Foundation spokesperson, Ocen Jacob, confirmed the news, stating that the late Won Nyaci had been in and out of hospitals for the past two years.
As the cultural leader of the Lango people since 2003, Won Nyaci Yosam Odur Ebii leaves behind a legacy of unity, peace, and cultural revival. His dedication to the Lango community and his tireless efforts to promote cultural identity and social welfare will be deeply missed.
Born in the early 1920s, Yosam Odur Ebii rose to prominence as a respected elder and unifier in Lango. He was enthroned as the Won Nyaci of the Lango Cultural Foundation in 2003, becoming the official cultural head of the Lango people.
During his tenure, 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.
The late Won Nyaci is survived by several children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His wife, Imat Victoria Agong, passed away in 2011.
Tributes are pouring in from across Uganda, and national leaders are expected to pay their respects in the coming days. The Lango Cultural Council is expected to convene an emergency meeting to plan the burial arrangements and issue an official statement.
We will provide more updates as information becomes available.
#campusmediahouse