The remains of former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Boniface Okoth Ogolla arrived in Tororo on Friday evening and met an outpouring of grief and admiration from the community he served with unwavering dedication.
Ogolla, who led the Uganda Police Force under President Milton Obote II from 1981 to 1985, passed away on February 14 at Nakasero Hospital in Kampala after a prolonged illness.
His contributions to national security and his reputation as a disciplined and professional officer have made his passing a significant moment for Uganda.
His body arrived at Bison Maguria 'B' Village in Western Division, Tororo Municipality, at approximately 5 p.m., marking the beginning of a series of events to honor his life and service.
Tororo District Chairperson John Okea and Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) stalwart Joseph Ocheino Pinytek received the body on behalf of the family, who were still traveling from Kampala.
A vigil will be held tonight in Tororo, followed by a memorial mass tomorrow, Saturday. On Sunday, February 23, Ogolla will be laid to rest at his ancestral home in Mbula Village, Petta Sub-County.
The arrival of his body has sparked heartfelt tributes, reflecting his legacy as a leader of exceptional discipline and integrity.
Speaking at the reception, Joseph Ocheino Pinytek described Ogolla as "the greatest and best civilian police chief since independence."
He emphasized Ogolla’s leadership during the turbulent years of the Luwero War, noting that under his command, there were no reported incidents of police misconduct against the opposition or corruption within the force.
"He was a true professional, serving a democratically elected government with dedication and honor," Pinytek said.
Even after his years in power, Ogolla remained a respected figure. "Even in exile, he returned with humility, a free man with his head held high, a dedicated professional, a loving husband, and a devoted father," he added.
Tororo District Chairperson John Okea highlighted Ogolla’s contributions beyond his national role. He recalled the former IGP’s efforts to protect Tororo residents during various insurgencies and his push for local recruitment into the police force and civil service.
“He was instrumental in ensuring that our people had access to national leadership, including President Obote. His influence was felt not just in policing but in the overall development of our community,” Okea said.
As Tororo prepares for Ogolla’s final farewell, the community stands united in grief and gratitude.
His funeral on Sunday is expected to attract a large and diverse gathering of mourners, all paying their last respects to a man who dedicated his life to his country and his people.
Ogolla’s legacy of discipline, service, and unwavering commitment to justice will remain etched in Uganda’s history.