By Derrick Omoding
The tragic murder of six-year-old Apio Joan Faith has deeply affected the Teso community and prompted strong reactions from local leaders, particularly the Teso Paramount Chief, Emorimor Paul Sande Emolot, his discontent with the situation implications surrounding it.
Apio, a twin, was on Wednesday evening discovered dead in the latrine of Jozan Nursery and Primary School in Soroti City East Division just three days after starting her term at the boarding school.
The grim details of her death, including disturbing images that circulated on social media showing her injuries, have ignited suspicions and fears among community members, leading many to speculate about possible child sacrifice.
Emorimor has condemned the school’s owners for their perceived negligence and has explicitly warned against the exploitation of children’s lives for financial gain.
In a heartfelt message delivered at the funeral of Brig. Gen. Charles Oluka, he called on the government, specifically urging Vice President Rtd. Maj. Jessica Rose Alupo, to take swift action in investigating the murder and ensuring justice for the child.
He expressed his astonishment at the heinous nature of the crime, stating, “This is one of the most disturbing incidents I have received since my childhood. It is so silly, it is ridiculous, an irony and a paradox in the land of Teso.”
Emorimor further criticized the culture of child sacrifice and cautioned parents to be diligent in choosing safe and legitimate educational institutions.
Moreover, he raised concerns about the broader impact of this tragedy on children’s attendance at school, noting reports of children withdrawing from school due to fear of similar incidents.
He urged security agencies to expedite their investigations, emphasizing the need for accountability and justice to restore trust within the community.
This harrowing incident has sparked a plea for collective action to protect children and ensure that their safety is prioritized in educational settings.