Pajakiri Metu Oru chief Opi Kanyaba Lukere II passes on

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The Madi sub-region is mourning the death of a prominent traditional ruler in Moyo district and the wider Madi community. Opi Kanyaba Lukere II passed away on January 20, 2026, at Moyo General Hospital after suffering cardiac arrest.

His death has caused deep sorrow among his people, although his legacy of leadership, peace and unity continues to endure.

Opi Salverio Lukere II was widely regarded as an influential cultural leader whose reign prioritised harmony and cohesion within the region.

He ascended to the throne in 2009 as the 11th chief of the Pajakiri Metu Oru clan following the death of his father, Opi Kanyaba Lukere Lukere I.

His leadership was marked by strong efforts to preserve culture, promote inter-clan unity and maintain peace across the Madi sub-region.

Abi Gabriel, who served as personal secretary to the late chief, described him as a great leader who also championed environmental protection and conservation, including the planting of ten acres of trees.

The Madi people, who are spread across Uganda’s West Nile region and parts of South Sudan, looked up to Opi Lukere II as a custodian of their culture and traditions for decades.

Burial arrangements are ongoing, and the funeral date has yet to be announced.