Rtd. Col. Tony Otoa – We will remember you forever

In the afternoon of Monday, April 28, 2025, at the age of 86, Rtd. Col. Tony Otoa, Lango’s strongest pillar, and clan leader of Abwor died peacefully at his home in Boke, Lira City.

At the time of his death, Apap was serving his clan as the Awitong, a position he held with wisdom, dignity, and deep devotion to his people. His leadership was distinguished by a strong emphasis on unity, cultural preservation, and spiritual guidance.

Apap died at a time when his children and Lango most needed him.

He was an advocate for truth, stable culture, and family stability; he spoke to us with love and promised to be with us on our journey. Apap was a father figure not only to his biological children, but to many others who sought his advice and blessings.

One of his most memorable prophetic acts occurred in 2024, when he warmly discussed the blossoming love between me and my man, Milton.

Before that, Apap had predicted my love story and family growth with his son, whom he had known for many years, but hadn’t known would be Milton!

“When love comes, my daughter; embrace the gift of love with faith and patience,” he told me in 2023. He kept telling me to bring his son to him so he could bless and pray for us.

“My daughter, when are you coming home with my son?” He asked me when I visited him on December 25, 2024. On that day, Milton called him and assured Apap that we would pay him a visit in early 2025.

March 29

Apap Tony and his dear wife, Aya Anna, hosted us, along with our friends and family members, at their Boke home on March 29, 2025. On that day, he was filled with joy and energy, and he blessed our decision to become one.

He blessed us with heartfelt prayers that emphasized the foundations of a strong relationship: friendship, partnership, and unconditional love.

He openly shared his own love life, offering valuable lessons learned over decades, as well as how much he loved his wife, children, and the Abwor clan.

One thing must be made clear: Apap was committed to ensuring long-term peace in Lango cultural administration and among his clan subjects.

He loved God and was devoted to his church. This was evident in how he dressed on the day he passed away. Apap died while wearing a t-shirt with a picture of the late Pope Francis.

Apap cautioned Milton and me to always seek God’s wisdom first in all matters, reminding us that love thrives when partners prioritize God, walk in forgiveness, and stand together in any situation.

Tony Otoa was more than just a clan leader and mentor; he was a living embodiment of tradition, compassion, and faith. His home was always a haven for conversation, reconciliation, and laughter. His gentle demeanor, wise words, and infectious sense of humor will be greatly missed.

Milton and I will sincerely miss a father who was willing to walk with us and provide guidance. We have agreed to follow his advice and remember him in all ways as per his request on March 29.

To Aya Anna, we’ll not leave you, we’ll constantly check on you.

We offer our sincere condolences to our brother Timothy and other siblings, and we ask that you all remain strong.

Till we cross paths again, Apap.