Kumam cultural leader condoles with Lango over death of Odur Ebii

____________________

The Kumam cultural leader, Won Ateker Papa me Kumam, Raphael Otaya, has condoled with the Lango community following the death of their paramount chief (Won Nyaci), Yosam Odur Ebii.

Speaking to New Vision on November 10, 2025, Otaya said he had learnt with shock about Odur’s death.

The announcement of Odur’s passing was made by the spokesperson of the Lango Cultural Foundation, Jacob Ocen.

Odur died at the age of 99 on November 10, 2025, at Lira University Teaching Hospital, where he had been admitted.

Raphael Otaya the Kumam cultural leader. (Photo by Michael Onyinge)

Otaya said the news of Odur’s death had deeply moved him and the entire Kumam community.

He remembered Odur as a cultural leader who loved peace, unity, and the well-being of his people.

Above all, he said Odur loved the Lango culture and that his efforts to preserve it could not be underrated.

Otaya noted that although others may have taken over leadership roles from Odur, he had steered the Lango community to where it is today, earning it respect and recognition.

He recalled that Odur had sent a delegation to his enthronement in Kaberamaido and personally attended the Ateker Festival in Soroti, which brought together different Ateker groups.

“As a Kumam community, we shall miss him as he still had ideas of advising and guiding people in different ways,” Otaya said.

He also prayed for God to console the family, close relatives, and all the Lango people during this difficult time.

Otaya further used the opportunity to comfort the Lango people living among the Kumam in various districts.

“We love each other, and we should continue to co-exist as before. Unity is always the strength of every society,” Otaya said.