The Passing of a Military Leader
Communities in the West Nile sub-region and the military fraternity in Uganda are mourning the death of Brigadier General Nasur Ezaga, a former leader of the defunct Uganda National Rescue Front II (UNRF II). His passing marks the end of an era for those who knew him and for the region he dedicated his life to serving.
Born in 1943 in the remote village of Jabala in Yumbe district, Ezaga passed away on Thursday at Victoria Hospital in Kampala at the age of 82. His son, Ali Nasur Apangu, shared details about his father’s final days, stating that Ezaga had been dealing with health complications from diabetes and hypertension for several years. However, his condition worsened around April of this year, leading to his admission to Bombo Military Barracks and later transfer to Victoria Hospital for comprehensive care under the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
“We have been at Victoria Hospital for the last six months. Mzee underwent brain surgery last month due to a blood clot in his brain. Since he spent the majority of his life in the military, the UPDF has taken his body to Bombo Military Barracks and will arrange for his send-off,” Apangu said.
A Life of Service
Late Brigadier General (Rtd) Nasur Ezaga was born in 1943 and joined the Army in 1961 as part of the King’s African Rifles, later serving in the Uganda Army. Throughout his career, he was involved in various military regimes, including Obote I and Idi Amin Dada’s regime.
Ezaga later collaborated with General Moses Ali as a founding member of the Uganda National Rescue Front and subsequently formed the Uganda National Rescue Front II with the late Major General Ali Bamuze. Following the comprehensive peace agreement signed between the Government of Uganda and UNRF II at Yumbe Boma grounds in 2002, Ezaga enrolled in the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF). He rose through the ranks within the UPDF until his retirement in 2010.
After retiring, Ezaga returned to Yumbe, where he mobilized various groups to engage in agriculture and supported the government. His efforts were aimed at fostering development and stability in the region.
Tributes to a Patriot
Rt. Maj. Noah Acikule, a former political commissar for the defunct UNRF II, described the late Ezaga as a true patriot who wanted the best for his people. He noted that Ezaga dedicated his life to ensuring peace in the region and committed himself to service.
“As a son of the region, Ezaga inspired many of us to join the army. He worked tirelessly to promote peace and devoted himself to serving the country. In him, we have lost a gallant son—dedicated and committed, always wishing well for his people,” Acikule said.
Ali Kalafani Drasi, a councillor representing the Bijo sub-county and Secretary for Security in Yumbe district, stated that Uganda has lost a pillar of peace. He emphasized that Ezaga played a crucial role in restoring peace to West Nile.
“He was a key advisor to the late Maj Gen Ali Bamuze, the then Chairman of UNRF II, and his advice led Bamuze to accept negotiations for peace,” Drasi added.
Legacy and Impact
Brigadier General Nasur Ezaga’s legacy is one of dedication, leadership, and service. His contributions to both the military and civilian sectors have left a lasting impact on the communities he served. As the UPDF prepares for his send-off, the people of Yumbe and the broader West Nile region reflect on the life of a man who gave so much to his country.
His journey from a small village to a prominent military leader is a testament to his resilience and commitment. Ezaga’s story is not just one of personal achievement but also of the collective effort to bring peace and stability to a region that has seen its share of conflict.
As tributes pour in from across Uganda, it is clear that Brigadier General Nasur Ezaga will be remembered as a true patriot and a symbol of hope for future generations.