The family and loved ones of the Late Dr. Wilfred Olila gathered at Lira Cathedral alongside thousands of mourners to pay their respects during a solemn requiem mass held in his honor. The service was marked by prayers, heartfelt tributes, and reflections on the life and legacy of the esteemed doctor.
Rev. Father Solomon Oyepa presided over the mass, delivering a moving homily. Quoting the book of Ecclesiastes, he remarked, “There is a time for everything; a time for birth and a time for death. We are all candidates of death… For now, we ask God to rest Dr. Olila Wilfred’s soul in eternal peace.”
Alfred Ogwal, nephew to the late Dr. Olila and head of the family, recounted the tragic circumstances of his uncle’s passing. “On Saturday, 18th January 2025, unknown individuals murdered and dumped Dr. Olila’s body in Kalaki District. We believe he was killed on the night of Friday, 17th January 2025,” Ogwal revealed. He added that Dr. Olila’s wife, Imat Alma Rose, grew concerned when he failed to return home that evening, prompting family members to search for him. Tragically, his lifeless body was discovered the following morning.
Despite the tragedy, Ogwal emphasized the family’s position of forgiveness. “Even if we uncover the identities of those responsible, we leave it to God. We will not seek revenge,” he stated, highlighting their faith and commitment to justice through divine intervention.
Ogwal further described Dr. Olila as a beacon of pride for the family and the nation, noting his exceptional contributions as a medical doctor who saved countless lives and inspired many during his career.
Egole Lawrence, Resident City Commissioner (RCC) for Lira City, assured mourners that investigations into the murder were underway. “Since 18th January 2025, significant strides have been made in securing the area. So far, six suspects have been arrested by a joint intelligence team comprising police and military. We believe the perpetrators will be brought to justice,” he affirmed.
Christopher Joseph Immaculate Aweki, Chairperson of the Laity, described Dr. Olila as a dedicated Christian and a committed member of the church. “Here in the church, we knew him as Dr. Wilfred Alma Rose Olila, a faithful and wedded Christian who lived a life of service,” he said.
Dr Olila`s Death.
The police report, shared by East Kyoga Regional Police Commander Damalie Nachuha, revealed harrowing details of the crime. Dr. Olila’s body was discovered along the Otuboi-Abalanga road in Ogolai village, Ogwolo sub-county, with his hands and legs bound and clear signs of trauma on his face.
Dr. Olila was a distinguished professional, earning his MBChB degree from Makerere University in 1984 and later specializing in ENT with a Master of Medicine in 2008. Beyond his clinical work, he was a visionary in private healthcare and a mentor to budding medical professionals as a lecturer at Soroti University.
The burial will take place on Saturday, 25th January 2025, at Dr. Olila’s ancestral home in Agweng, Lira District. His tragic passing has left the Lango community and the nation mourning the loss of an exceptional individual and his legacy as a doctor, mentor, and dedicated family man will remain etched in the hearts of Ugandans.
ENDS
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