Lira District, Uganda – April 30, 2025 – Geoffrey Etwop, a prominent NRM aspirant in Lira City and the clan head of the Ober clan, has expressed his deep sorrow following the death of the former Lango cultural leader, Retired Colonel Tonny Otoa.
Etwop lauded the late Col. Otoa as a distinguished Lango hero who made significant contributions to the development of the Lango sub-region and its cultural heritage.
“Awitong Tony dedicated himself wholeheartedly to uniting the people of Lango culturally, including those in Northern Uganda and the diaspora, fostering collaboration for the development of Lango,” Etwop stated.
He added, “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Retired Colonel Tonny Otoa, who served Uganda diligently and with great wisdom during his early years in the military. ‘Awitong’ Etwop described Otoa as a remarkable figure, a courageous man, and a truly disciplined leader who mentored numerous young individuals both within and outside the Lango Sub-region, nurturing their holistic development, particularly in cultural aspects.”
At the time of his passing on Monday afternoon at his residence in Boke Ward, Lira City East Division, Lira City, according to family sources, Otoa was 86 years old and also served as the Awitong (Clan head) of the Abwori clan.
He will be remembered for his exceptional leadership, his commitment to preserving Lango’s culture, and his contributions to the unity and progress of the Lango community worldwide.
Currently, residents of the Lango sub-region, especially the cultural community in Lango and Northern Uganda, including those living abroad, are in mourning following the unexpected death of Retired Colonel Tonny Otoa.
His passing has deeply affected many Ugandans, particularly senior citizens who knew and admired his wisdom and insightful service for many years.
