Lango Paramount Chief Yosam Odur Ebii Dies at 99

By Patrick Okino | Lira

The Lango Paramount Chief, Won Nyaci Yosam Odur Ebii, has died at the age of 99.

According to the Lango Cultural Foundation spokesperson, Mr. Jacob Ocen, the cultural leader passed away on Monday morning, November 10, 2025, at Lira University Teaching Hospital, where he had been admitted since Saturday.

“He was admitted after suffering from malaria but later started coughing severely,” Ocen said. “I want to inform the people of Lango that Won Nyaci Apap Oyam Odur has passed on today at Lira University Teaching Hospital.”

Odur had served as the Won Nyaci (Paramount Chief) of Lango for several decades, earning respect for his efforts to promote peace, unity, and cultural preservation among the Lango people.

In 2023, he stepped down from his position following a leadership dispute with Eng. Dr. Michael Odongo Okune. The following year, Dr. Odongo was elected as Paramount Chief, though the decision was contested by Odur and a section of clan leaders.

 Tributes are expected to pour in from cultural leaders, politicians, and citizens who regarded him as a symbol of wisdom and integrity.

Funeral arrangements will be communicated by the Lango Cultural Foundation in due course.