Family, leaders celebrate Okoth Ogolla’s life of service

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Aron Boniface Okoth Ogolla, the former Inspector General of Police, was laid to rest Sunday, February 23, 2025, at his ancestral home in Mbula village, Petta sub-county, Tororo district. A five-gun salute honoured his remarkable legacy.

Ogolla, who passed away on February 14, 2025, at Nakasero Hospital in Kampala, served as Uganda’s police chief from 1981 to 1986, having joined the force in 1961. His funeral was a moving tribute to a life dedicated to service at both local and national levels.

A life of service and sacrifice

Tributes poured in from all quarters, reflecting Ogolla’s profound impact on his family, community, and the nation.

MP Apollo Yeri, representing Tororo Municipality, acknowledged Ogolla’s contributions to the area.

"It's a pity we lost him. The late has done wonders for our municipality. As a sign of our appreciation, we shall name a road in his honour—Okoth Ogolla," he said.

Yeri encouraged the family to uphold his legacy.

Emmanuel Otaala, MP for West Budama South, praised Ogolla’s humility and outstanding service.

"Today is a sad day. The late Okoth Ogolla served this country with distinction and humility. He was a gifted conversationalist. When the UPC government fell, he went into exile and lived a humble life," Otaala said. "We have many hardworking Jopadhola, and I feel they should be promoted to leadership roles within the force as a tribute to the former IGP's contribution."

Sarah Opendi, Woman MP for Tororo, highlighted Ogolla’s many years of dedicated service.

"We read about Okoth Ogolla, but what stands out is his distinction in service. He was straightforward, and all of us in public office should emulate his example." Opendi echoed Otaala’s sentiments, adding, "Our sons who have served as IGP haven't embarrassed us; why not reward us by promoting Jopadhola to directorial roles in the force?"

Dr Tanga Odoi, chairperson of the NRM electoral commission, underscored Ogolla’s integrity as a model for leaders.

Ogolla’s sister, Eunice Aketch Owino, reflected on his deep love and unwavering support for his family, while his widow, Jennifer Okoth Ogolla, remembered his discipline and devotion, alongside his profound affection.

His son, Mekel Okoth Ogolla, paid tribute to the legacy his father built.

Josel Obbo, prime minister of the Tieng Adhola cultural institution, highlighted Ogolla’s role as a respected figure in the Jopadhola community.

James Ochaya, Deputy Inspector General of Police, who represented current IGP Abbas Byakagaba, recounted Ogolla’s distinguished career, commending his mentorship, dedication, honesty, and incorruptibility.

Defence minister Jacob Oboth Oboth, representing the government, praised Ogolla’s humility, noting that President Museveni’s recognition of his service led to a state burial. He emphasised the importance of humility in leadership.

A vision from youth

Tophy Mwambu, a former classmate of Ogolla at Nabumali High School, painted a vivid picture of his early ambition.

"Okoth Ogolla started his aspiration of becoming a police officer while we were still in secondary school... I remember Ogolla buying shoes similar to those worn by soldiers. He also conducted mock drills. He would make sure he was the last student to enter the classroom, walking like a policeman; sometimes he'd even make his colleagues march around the classroom. He truly lived his aspiration and achieved it. Rest in peace, my OB Okoth Ogolla."