Abbaa Qabeenyaa Abdullahi Lungoo, born Abdullahi Mohammad Billi Butee, was a monumental figure whose unwavering commitment and immense sacrifice helped forge the modern Oromo liberation movement. From the heart of Oromia, in Baale Hararghe, Gara Mullata, he rose not as a soldier on the frontline, but as the essential foundation upon which the struggle was built—a financier, a strategist, and a steadfast protector.

His legacy is defined by six pillars of monumental contribution:

1. The Patron of Patriots

Abdullahi Lungoo was a crucial benefactor to the Oromo liberation movement from its very inception. He provided critical financial and material support to a generation of Oromo freedom fighters, including foundational leaders like Elemoo Qilxuu, Jarraa Abbaa Gadaa, Sheek Mohammad Rashaad, Husseen Buunee, and many others. By sustaining their morale and operations, he earned his title as a true Abbaa Qabeenyaa—a father of wealth who shared it for the cause of freedom.

2. The Defender in Crisis

During a pivotal and desperate moment, when the esteemed freedom fighter Elemoo Qilxuu was severely wounded and captured, Abdullahi Lungoo orchestrated a critical rescue mission. He facilitated Elemoo’s transport from Moqadisho to Yemen, ensuring his safety and medical care, thereby demonstrating his profound commitment to protecting the movement’s leadership at any cost.

3. The Builder of Institutions

Understanding that the struggle needed intellectual and spiritual strength, Abdullahi Lungoo partnered with Sheek Abdusalam Umar Mullata to construct the Xaaliyaan Mosque in Dire Dawa. Beyond its religious purpose, this project served as a sanctuary and a hub. He later established a Madrassa in Moqadisho, ensuring that Oromo refugees and intellectuals could preserve their language, faith, and knowledge far from home.

4. The Midwife of a National Symbol

Abdullahi Lungoo played a central role in the creation of the OLF flag. He was a key participant in the critical meetings involving leaders like Soreessa Jarraa Abbaa Gadaa, Sheek Mohammad Rashaad, and Shantaam Shubbisaa that led to its design and adoption. He provided the financial resources needed to bring this powerful symbol of Oromo identity into being, with the final design bearing the mark of Sheek Mohammad Rashaad. His support for this project was continuous and vital.

5. The Sanctuary in Exile

When persecution intensified, his wealth became a lifeline for thousands. Forced to flee to Sudan and Kenya himself, Abdullahi Lungoo used his resources to provide shelter and sustenance for thousands of Oromo refugees, ensuring their survival in the most trying of times.

6. A Hero’s Final Wish

Even in his final moments, his spirit remained on the battlefield. Stricken by illness, he refused to be separated from the struggle, declaring, “Do not take me to a hospital; take me to the front lines.” True to his indomitable will, he passed away on May 22, 2022, in Dire Dawa and was laid to rest at the Dirree Lolaa Caalii Calanqoo—the “Field of the Martyrs”—a place he himself had chosen.

His legacy is a challenge and an inspiration. May God grant him the highest paradise among the martyrs. May his story be told, his name be honored, and his contributions be remembered for generations to come.

Mulladhaa. Leellisaa. Hora Bulaa!