Leaders pay tribute to fallen IGP John Cossy Odomel

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Family, friends, and government officials paid their last respects to the late Emeritus Inspector General of Police (IGP) John Cossy Odomel during a requiem mass at St. Charles Lwanga Church in Ntinda.

The atmosphere was sombre, with mourners predominantly dressed in black. Some were teary-eyed, others looked on in disbelief, while some held their cheeks in shock.

Family members broke down upon seeing the casket carrying the fallen IGP. Some wailed, while others sobbed silently, clutching handkerchiefs tightly. It was evident that Odomel had meant so much—not only to his family but to the entire nation.

The current IGP, Abas Byakagaba, attended the requiem mass alongside other police officers, including pallbearers, all dressed in black police uniforms.

Former IGP Kale Kayihura was also present to pay his last respects. The Speaker of Parliament and other high-profile government officials attended the ceremony.

In his eulogy, IGP Byakagaba said Odomel's “legacy in building a strong foundation for the Police continues to inspire us and his contributions will always be remembered.”

Byakagaba said Odomel joined the Uganda Police Force in 1980 and served as IGP from April 24, 1992, to January 1, 1999. At the time of his passing, he was a member of the Police Authority.

While paying her last respects, Speaker Among said Uganda had lost “a significant figure—an esteemed leader whose integrity, discipline, and dedication elevated the Uganda Police Force to a respected institution.”

“John was a true patriot who served with honour, leaving behind a legacy that should inspire us all. On behalf of Parliament and myself, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, the police community, friends, and loved ones,” she said in a X post.

Numerous tributes poured in from mourners, including his children.

After Mass, his body was taken to his ancestral home in Amusiat, Pallisa District, located in eastern Uganda. He is set to be buried on Saturday, March 1, 2025.

The former police boss passed away on February 18, 2025, in India. He died five months after losing his wife, Mary Magdalene Odomel. His family said Odomel passed away peacefully.