The Regional Assistant to the Mufti (RAM) in charge of North Eastern Uganda, His Eminence Sheikh Obilan Abubakar Umar, has strongly condemned the increasing cases of land grabbing in the Teso region, particularly targeting religious, educational, and vulnerable community lands.
Speaking to the media, Sheikh Obilan expressed deep concern over the fraudulent acquisition of Muslim land in both Soroti City and Kumi Municipality.
He cited a notable incident in Kumi where municipal authorities allegedly processed a land title during the COVID-19 period in 2021 to illegally take over Muslim land located in the heart of the town.
“Land grabbing has reached its peak in the Teso region,” he said. “It is being carried out by those in authority and wicked individuals who do not wish others well. They are targeting religious land, school land, and the land belonging to poor communities.”
Sheikh Obilan did not mince his words as he also condemned Soroti City authorities for reportedly selling off part of Swaria Primary School’s land in a controversial compensation deal.
“How shameless can our leaders be, to fraudulently dispose of three classroom blocks of Swaria Primary School to purportedly compensate a lawyer?” he questioned.
“City authorities must act swiftly to rectify this injustice and ensure that the school reclaims its rightful land.”
He further called on the authorities to fast-track the boundary opening for Soroti Islamic Primary School, an activity he said had been budgeted for in the 2024/2025 financial year.
However, with the financial year nearing its end, no action has been seen.
“We are aware that Soroti City budgeted for this exercise, but we are approaching the end of the financial year and nothing is taking place,” Sheikh Obilan noted with concern.
He urged Soroti City leadership to commit to meaningful stakeholder engagement to resolve these land issues amicably.
In his concluding remarks, he called upon the local population to remain vigilant, critically analyze these injustices, and take a stand to protect their communal assets.
In response to the accusations, Soroti City Mayor Joshua Edogu acknowledged the situation at Swaria Primary School, noting that the matter has been ongoing and had even reached the courts.
“We are aware of everything happening at Swaria Primary School, and we are committed to addressing it,” Mayor Edogu stated.
“Even though the matter is in court, we are ensuring that studies continue, and we are looking forward to maintaining harmony and stability at the school to support our children’s education.”
The Mayor also mentioned plans to involve the Resident City Commissioner (RCC), School Management Committee (SMC), stakeholders, and foundation bodies in discussions aimed at finding a lasting solution.
“We intend to schedule a collective meeting to clarify responsibilities and find a way forward in resolving this matter,” he added.
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