The future of Lira is standing at a critical crossroads, and its path toward prosperity depends on the community’s ability to choose cooperation over conflict. Recently, prominent religious leaders in the Lango sub-region issued a passionate appeal for harmony, warning that the ongoing legal battle over land for the proposed Lira Airport could result in a devastating loss for the entire community. Speaking on the Odiko Alyet program on Unity FM, Bishop Emeritus John Charles Odur Kami and Bishop Emeritus Alfred Acur Okodi urged all involved parties to prioritize the region’s long-term growth over prolonged disputes.
Bishop Odur Kami grounded his plea in a sobering history lesson that serves as a wake-up call for the region. He reminded listeners that Lango has a history of missing out on transformative projects due to internal resistance. Most notably, he pointed out that Gulu University was originally slated to be established in Ngetta, within the Lango region. However, because local leaders and residents feared their land was being stolen, the project was relocated to Gulu. While Lira eventually received a university branch that grew into the current Lira University, the Bishop emphasized that the institution would be much larger and more influential today had the community embraced the initial project years ago. He cautioned that a reflex to reject every major initiative only serves to keep the region from reaching its full potential.
This urgent message comes at a time of high tension. Currently, 68 residents from the Anai area have filed a lawsuit in the Lira High Court against the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the Lira City Land Board. These residents allege that the government body fraudulently secured a land title for over 520 hectares—an area significantly larger than what was originally planned for the airport. The plaintiffs claim this title encroaches on private property, extends into the Kole District, and even overlaps with the Lira–Apac Highway road reserve. They are asking the court to cancel the title and award them damages.
While Bishop Alfred Acur Okodi acknowledged that citizens have a fundamental right to defend their property through the legal system, he argued that the courtroom is not always the best place for progress. He praised the residents for coming forward with their grievances but suggested that dialogue remains the most effective way to reach a lasting solution. He expressed concern that even if the residents feel they have a strong case, the unpredictability of the law could lead to an outcome that helps no one.
The Bishops are now calling on the 68 petitioners to consider a different path: withdrawing the court case in favor of an honest, face-to-face discussion with the authorities. They believe that through mutual understanding and compromise, a deal can be reached that respects the rights of the landowners while ensuring the airport project moves forward. The underlying message is clear: Lira cannot afford to let another massive development opportunity fly away. By choosing conversation over confrontation, the people of Lango can ensure that the next generation inherits a thriving city rather than a history of missed chances.