Chaos Erupts at Uganda's Abuja Embassy as Staff Fights Lead to Police Intervention

Uganda’s diplomatic mission in Abuja, Nigeria, was thrown into disarray this week when a heated dispute between staff members escalated to the point where host country police were called to intervene. Videos circulating show national police attempting to de-escalate a shouting match involving embassy personnel.

At the center of the commotion was the Accounting Officer, Mr. Eriya Tusubira, who was confronted by a Nigerian staff member questioning his authority. Mr. Tusubira stated he had called the police due to “threatened violence,” a claim disputed by the accuser who implied he was the one making threats.

Sources indicate the protest was initiated by local staff who had not received their salaries for months, despite funds being available. The situation intensified when they discovered police had been called without the knowledge of the acting Ambassador, Phillip Odida.

The Abuja mission has a history of internal turmoil. Its former envoy, Ambassador Nelson Ocheger, was recalled in late 2024 amid investigations into alleged corruption and money laundering related to the construction of the chancery building. While Ocheger and other implicated staff have since been cleared, the mission remains embroiled in disputes, including a significant rent arrears case and ongoing disagreements over authority between staff members.

Furthermore, the stalled construction of the chancery building, a project left at 90% completion, and the reported non-payment of around 17 Nigerian employees for several months, contribute to the mission’s ongoing instability. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been criticized for its apparent inaction amidst these persistent issues.

This article is based on information from the Daily Monitor.