Family of Uganda’s First IGP Calls for National Recognition

During a memorial service at the ancestral home of the late Wilson Erinayo Oryema, the first Inspector General of Police (IGP) in Uganda, his family appealed for his inclusion in the national calendar to acknowledge his contributions to the nation.

The service, held at Tangi Farm in Purongo Sub-County, Nwoya District, emphasized Oryema’s dedication to democracy, unity, and peace, which ultimately led to his tragic death during the Idi Amin regime in 1977.
William Oryema, the late IGP’s eldest son, highlighted his father’s significant contributions to the country and called for his recognition.
He emphasized Oryema’s role in advocating for democracy and peace and expressed disappointment that his efforts had not been officially acknowledged by the government.
Alfred Otim, Oryema’s grandson and family secretary, echoed the sentiment, lamenting that many individuals who contributed to Uganda’s development have been recognized on the national calendar, while Oryema’s name remains absent. Otim urged the government to honor Oryema’s legacy and recognize his service, especially considering his role as the first IGP of Uganda.
Prossy Ajok, another family member, emphasized the importance of remembering Oryema’s contributions and urged the government to acknowledge his services. She noted that the annual memorial prayers organized by the family aimed to honor Oryema’s memory and educate younger generations about his achievements.
Additionally, Otim highlighted President Yoweri Museveni’s pledge to build a vocational school in Purongo Sub-County in honor of Oryema’s contributions. He urged local and national leaders to remind the president to fulfill this pledge as a testament to Oryema’s legacy and contribution to Uganda.
Leaders and community members present at the memorial service echoed the family’s sentiments, praising Oryema’s dedication to the country and calling for his recognition on the national calendar. They emphasized the need to honor Oryema’s memory and ensure that his contributions are not forgotten.
The community leaders also condemned the atrocities committed during the Idi Amin regime and stressed the importance of unity and peace in Uganda’s development. They urged the government to fulfill its promises, including the construction of the vocational school promised by President Museveni during Oryema’s reburial.