By Nathan Eyagu 

Soroti City, – Religious leaders in Teso have strongly condemned the tragic and gruesome killing of six-year-old Joan Faith Apio at Jozan Nursery and Primary School. The religious leaders while addressing journalists today's morning in a press briefing called for swift justice, urging authorities to ensure that those responsible are held accountable while cautioning the public against such barbaric acts.  

Apio’s body was discovered inside a locked pit latrine at the school, her throat slit, just days after she was enrolled in the boarding section alongside her twin sister, Suzan Acen. The shocking discovery sparked nationwide outrage, leading to multiple arrests and the indefinite closure of the school.  

Religious leaders from various denominations in Teso have expressed their grief and anger over the incident, calling for an end to such atrocities.  

Bishop Kokas Olupot, the Regional Bishop of Born Again Pentecostal Church in Teso and overseer of Christ Miracle Ministry, described the incident as painful and unacceptable.  

“We are heartbroken and outraged as the body of Christ. The Christian Church does not support such acts, and we demand that government authorities take action. Those responsible must be arrested and held accountable. Every person has a right to live, and parents have the right to educate their children without fear,” he stated.  

He further warned against false beliefs that child sacrifice could bring wealth, stating that such practices only invite curses upon individuals and communities.  

Bishop Sam Eibu Okiror of the Baptist Church in Teso-Karamoja condemned the killing, emphasizing the sanctity of life.  

“It is inhumane to take the life of another, especially a child. God has given life to both the young and old, and no one has the right to take it away. We urge all people in Teso and Uganda at large to reject such evil,” he stated.  

He commended the security forces for taking swift action, adding, “Justice delayed is justice denied. We appreciate the authorities for pursuing the culprits, and we urge that they be brought to book without delay. The church stands with the grieving family, trusting that God will provide them with comfort and justice.”  

Bishop Okiror also warned parents to be more vigilant in selecting schools for their children, urging them to conduct personal visits and assessments to ensure their safety.  

Bishop Tukei James Israel, the Provisional Overseer of Soroti City’s Light Resurrection Ministries International, strongly condemned the killing, stating that such acts are against both religious and moral principles.  

“A parent takes a child to school expecting them to receive an education, only for their life to be brutally taken. Such evil acts must stop. Even the Bible condemns such crimes. Children are a gift from God meant for multiplication, not destruction. We urge all those involved in such practices, whether in business or politics, to turn away from such wickedness and follow the right path,” he declared.  

Religious leaders in Teso have urged the public to reject acts of violence and murder, warning that such crimes bring generational curses.  

“Businesses are established through God and hard work. We must trust Him to provide for us and protect us. Let us hand everything to God and seek peace and protection,” said Bishop Olupot.  

The leaders encouraged the community to remain vigilant and work together with authorities to prevent similar incidents in the future. They reaffirmed their commitment to praying for the affected families and ensuring justice is served.  

Following the tragic incident, the police arrested several individuals, including school director Joseph Kedi, headteacher David Kadimba, matron Osula Adongo, and a teacher. Investigations revealed that the school had been illegally operating a boarding section since 2019, despite being licensed only as a mixed-day school.  

The school has since been closed indefinitely to allow for thorough investigations. Security agencies continue to pursue leads, ensuring that all those involved are brought to justice.  

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief of Defence Forces Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding in his recent remarks called for a full investigation, emphasizing that such incidents must never be allowed to happen again.  

As the Teso community mourns the loss of young Joan Faith Apio, religious leaders and authorities are united in their demand for justice and a renewed commitment to protecting the lives of innocent children.