By Mike Rwothomio

Security personnel in Zombo District joined hundreds of believers in a vibrant Easter Sunday Mass at Paidha Catholic Parish in Nebbi Catholic Diocese, blending faith, community, and a strong message against mob violence and lawlessness.

The colorful celebration at Oturgang Catholic Church saw senior security officials, including Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Festus Ayikobua, Assistant RDC Bruno Mananu, District Police Commander SSP Job Mutegeki, District CID officers, UPDF representatives, Uganda Prisons officials from Paidha, and DISO’s office delegates, freely mingling with worshippers.

The Easter Mass, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ, was dramatically enhanced by a heavy hour-long downpour, which believers interpreted as a heavenly blessing.

Worshippers chanted, rejoiced, and sang melodious Easter hymns led by the St. Francis of Assisi choir, creating an atmosphere of joy and spiritual renewal.

Addressing the congregation, RDC Festus Ayikobua strongly cautioned residents against the rising cases of mob action, urging them to leave law enforcement to the police.

His remarks came just a week after two teenagers were allegedly murdered by a mob in Paidha Town Council over suspicions of attempting to steal a motorcycle. They also follow the recent release of Uganda Police’s 2025 annual crime report, which recorded 950 related cases.

“People are killing each other a lot. We call upon you not to kill others if you suspect they have committed a crime. We are seeing innocent people being killed. We have our police officers here; they can handle such cases,” Ayikobua said.

He further appealed to parents to support their children’s education and warned against land wrangles.

On security vigilance, the RDC urged locals to be cautious during festive seasons like Easter, avoid hosting undocumented visitors, and remain alert to criminal elements who may exploit such occasions.

Paidha Catholic Parish Priest, Rev. Father Mungujakisa Paul, commended the security team for actively participating in the Mass and for their tireless efforts in maintaining peace in the district.

In his sermon, Fr. Mungujakisa emphasized that Easter gives believers hope and encouragement amid the difficult times many are facing.

“Jesus is amongst us. Let us live in the life of Christ’s resurrection,” he told the faithful.

He discouraged drug abuse and substance use, urging believers to honor their bodies and keep them holy as they renew their faith. The priest also called on those blessed with resources to empower others rather than using their wealth to victimize or overpower people.

Anglican Church Echoes Message of Hope

Security team for introduction

Elsewhere in the district, Rev. Marlon Rupiny, Parish Priest of Paidha Town Parish Church of Uganda, Goli Central Archdeaconry, delivered a spirited sermon at St. Paul Church of Uganda, Mvungu, during the first Easter service.

Drawing from the Gospel of Matthew 28:1, Rev. Rupiny preached under the theme “The powerful resurrection of Jesus Christ has given us hope.”

He urged believers to allow God to use them for good causes and to draw strength from the resurrection to overcome challenges and resist the devil’s temptations.

For Christians worldwide, Easter Sunday is the most important day in the liturgical year. It commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead on the third day after his crucifixion , an event that lies at the very heart of the Christian faith.

Believers see the resurrection as the ultimate victory of life over death, light over darkness, and hope over despair. It signifies God’s power to bring new life out of suffering, offers forgiveness of sins, and assures eternal life to those who put their faith in Christ.

In times of hardship, Easter serves as a powerful reminder that no situation is beyond redemption and that Jesus is alive and present with His people.

Security leaders for prayers at Oturgang Catholic church on Easter Sunday.

Mike Rwothomio is news editor at zoomer Africa your number one grassroot information hub