Articles by Charles Etukuri

Politics

Businessman charged over violent takeover of church land in Omoro

Businessman charged over violent takeover of church land in Omoro He is accused of forcible entry onto land belonging to St Luke Church of Uganda under the Northern Uganda Diocese, an offence contrary to Section 73 of the Penal Code Act. Businessman Peter Abola (standing) before the Chief Magistrate Court in Gulu where he was remanded after being charged. (Courtesy photo) Share: Our WhatsApp Channel __________________A businessman from Omoro District, Peter Abola, was on Monday, November 24, 2025, arraigned before Grade One Magistrate Bonny Akol at the Gulu High Court Circuit in Gulu city.He is accused of forcible entry onto land belonging to St Luke Church of Uganda under the Northern Uganda Diocese, an offence contrary to Section 73 of the Penal Code Act.He was remanded until December 10, 2025.Part of the land Abola fenced. (Courtesy photo)Abola was arrested during a joint operation conducted by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SHACU), the Criminal Investigations Directorate, and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.In a statement issued on Monday, SHACU said that “between October and November 20, 2025, at Koro Abili village, Labwoc parish, Koro sub-county in Omoro district, Abola unlawfully and violently entered the Church’s land in an attempt to take possession of it.”“It is alleged that he transported concrete poles, wire mesh, and chain links onto the property and began fencing it off, including the area hosting a Health Centre II owned by the Church, thereby blocking the community’s access to vital health services. He also allegedly chased away the health centre staff without presenting any lawful court order,” the statement adds.Businessman from Omoro District, Peter Abola. (Courtesy photo)According to SHACU, historical records show that St Luke Church of Uganda has occupied the 18-acre piece of land since 1926, during which it has established a church, a primary school, and a Health Centre II that have served the community without dispute until this incident.SHACU said evidence gathered by its team and CID operatives will be used by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions to prosecute Abola.