By Our Reporter
It has emerged from reliable sources within Uganda’s security agencies that following the abduction of Edward Sebuufu, popularly known as Eddie Mutwe head of security for National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu alias Bobi Wine the hunt has now extended to his close associates, both within Uganda and in the diaspora.
Top among those reportedly being pursued is Richard Niyo, widely known as Niyocorp Umufumbira, a long-time friend of Mutwe and a vocal NUP supporter based in the United States of America. Another figure said to be on the radar is Abu Lumanyika, who is believed to have fled the country and whose whereabouts remain unclear.
According to sources familiar with the operation, Niyo is being targeted due to his close ties to the NUP leadership, particularly to Eddie Mutwe, with whom he is said to have shared accommodation during international travels. “Richard Niyo not only gave refuge to Mutwe during his visits to the U.S., but he has also remained deeply involved in NUP’s activities both in Uganda and abroad,” a source disclosed.
Eddie Mutwe’s abduction occurred on April 27, 2025, at Kiwango trading centre in Goma Division, Mukono Municipality. Eyewitnesses reported that he was seized by individuals clad in both civilian clothes and military fatigue shortly after attending a meeting at Namweezi village, just a short distance away. He was reportedly dragged into an unmarked vehicle and driven off at high speed.
After five days of silence and public speculation, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the First Son and Chief of Defence Forces confirmed Mutwe’s detention through a series of provocative posts on X, formerly known as Twitter. In one post, Muhoozi wrote, “He is in my basement. Learning Runyankore. You [Bobi Wine] are next!”
Another post added: “I captured NUP’s military commander like a grasshopper (Nsenene). If they keep on provoking us, we shall discipline them even more.” The statements, which appeared to mock both Mutwe and the NUP leadership, were widely condemned on social media and sparked concern among human rights advocates.
Following Muhoozi’s posts, internal security sources informed this website that Richard Niyo is now considered a person of interest in what they describe as an ongoing counter-political operation. Niyo is believed to possess sensitive knowledge concerning NUP’s internal strategies, especially through his alleged proximity to the party’s top security personnel.
As for Abu Lumanyika, details remain scarce. Sources declined to comment on his exact role or location but confirmed that he is under investigation for “holding significant knowledge of NUP operations and strategies.”
Following Muhoozi’s Post Kyagulanyi later took to his social media accounts and demanded his immediate release. He also expressed deep concern about the growing pattern of abductions, surveillance, and transnational intimidation targeting its members and supporters.
This latest episode adds to the rising tension between the ruling establishment and the opposition, especially as Uganda approaches another critical political juncture.
