SC Villa captain David Owori remembered at emotional requiem mass

Hundreds of mourners gathered on Thursday for the requiem Mass of former SC Villa captain David Owori (28), who was brutally murdered on Tuesday night near his home in Dubai Zone, Makindye.

Owori is reported to have been attacked by suspected gangsters just a few metres from his residence as he returned from an SC Villa training session at East High School grounds in Ntinda.

The congregation at St. Peter's Catholic Church, Nsambya, included SC Villa trustees, executive committee members, coaches, current and former players, club legends, fans, family members, relatives, and friends, all paying tribute to one of the club's most respected footballers.

Leading the Mass, Fr. Alex Kambagira strongly condemned the killers, describing the murder as a tragic loss not only to the family but also to Ugandan football and the wider sporting community.

"God created David with a special football talent, and he used it well. We thank everyone who nurtured him throughout his journey, especially Nicholas Nsubuga, who groomed him, and Fr. Joseph Kasozi, who played football with him during his childhood," Fr. Kambagira said.

Reflecting on the scriptures, the priest said Owori faithfully used the God-given gift entrusted to him.

"Unfortunately, he died in such a shocking manner because of people driven by evil. They continue to end innocent lives. It is only God who has control over our lives, not such people," he added.

Fr. Kambagira said Owori's life and career would have continued had it not been cut short by violence, leaving behind a grieving family, including his two-year-old son.

He also expressed concern over the country's growing insecurity, saying no one is completely safe and urging Ugandans to embrace peace and moral values.

"What has happened to David can happen to any of us. We must pray for our nation and work towards restoring peace," he said.

SC Villa pays tribute

Speaking on behalf of the SC Villa Board of Trustees, Franck Mugabe praised Owori's discipline, leadership, and commitment to the club.

"I urge the players to preserve and emulate David's legacy as they continue building the future of this great club," Mugabe said.

He also assured the bereaved family that SC Villa would continue supporting them in the years ahead.

The club further revealed that it is considering retiring jersey No. 15 in honour of Owori's contribution to SC Villa.

On behalf of the players, Arnold Odong described Owori as a unifying figure who always bridged the gap between players and club management.

"He was friendly to everyone and always sought unity. We shall greatly miss him," Odong said.

Family appreciates support

Representing the family, Owori's brother, Joel Ocheing, thanked everyone who had stood with them during the difficult period, with special appreciation to SC Villa president Hajji Omar Mandela.

"He has stood with our family throughout this difficult time. David's dream was to build a home for our mother, and we remain grateful for all the support we have received," Ocheing said.

FUFA salutes Owori's legacy

FUFA First Vice President Justus Mugisha conveyed the federation's condolences and praised Owori's football journey from grassroots to the professional ranks.

"David leaves behind a positive football legacy. He progressed through school football, club football, and represented Uganda. He was part of the Uganda Cranes provisional squad for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco and also played professional football in Spain and Sweden," Mugisha said.

Mugisha presented Shs2 million on behalf of FUFA to support the bereaved family.

He also commended Owori for returning home after his professional stint abroad to help SC Villa reclaim the Uganda Premier League title after a 20-year wait.

Burial arrangements

SC Villa officials organised a night vigil at Lukuli Playground in Makindye for supporters and members of the football fraternity.

The body will be transported to Teso, where another vigil will be held at his ancestral home before burial on Saturday in Yolwa.

David Owori's playing career

Youth Career

Nsambya Young Stars Academy

Wembley Soccer Academy

Lukuli United

Senior Career

Vipers SC

Proline FC

SC Villa

Velex CF (Spain)

Utsiktens BK (Sweden)

Returned to SC Villa