A tense confrontation erupted in Seguku after residents from an estimated 500 households accused a local church of blocking a long-used community access road, triggering a standoff that drew in local leaders and security personnel.
The disputed route, which connects several residential areas to the Kampala–Entebbe highway, schools, and nearby trading centres, is regarded by residents as an essential public pathway.
They say its closure has severely affected daily movement, especially for school-going children, workers, and emergency services.
The situation escalated when residents gathered at the site of the blocked road, demanding immediate restoration of access and accusing the church of acting without community consultation.
“We have lived here for years, and this road has always been part of our daily life. Blocking it has caused serious hardship,” said David Ssemakula, a resident of Seguku.
Church officials, represented by Rev. Andrew Sserwadda, defended the decision, stating that the affected section lies within legally owned church land and is part of planned construction and expansion works.
“We respect the community, but this is private property. The developments underway are lawful, though we remain open to dialogue on access concerns,” Rev. Sserwadda said.
The situation prompted immediate intervention from local leadership.
LC1 Chairperson Jane Nanyonga called for calm and urged both parties to suspend further action while authorities verify the legal status of the contested road.
Police officers led by ASP Michael Byaruhanga were deployed to the area to prevent escalation and maintain order as discussions continue.
The dispute underscores increasing land and access tensions in rapidly growing suburbs such as Seguku, where expanding private developments continue to intersect with long-established community routes.
