Arsenal fans in Tooro have paid tribute to the fallen King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, describing him as a passionate supporter of the club and a patron of the Fort Portal Arsenal Diehards.
The fans have also called on government to fulfill its pledge to construct a stadium in Tooro, saying the facility would preserve the king’s legacy of promoting sports and youth talent.
Herbert Mugisa, a member of the Fort Portal Arsenal Diehards, says King Oyo was a strong supporter of Arsenal and a pillar in promoting youth talent through his support for sports.
Mugisa is now calling on the President to fulfill his pledge to construct a stadium on land donated by the late king.
The Arsenal fans want the facility to be named King Oyo Stadium in his honor, citing his passion for sports and his contribution to nurturing young talent.
Mugisa is also urging the Tooro Parliamentary Caucus to push government to ensure the stadium project is implemented, saying it would provide a platform for young people to develop their sporting talents.
Meanwhile, Fort Portal Arsenal Diehard member Sammie Eto says the supporters have organized several activities ahead of the king’s final send-off.
These include a three day fasting and prayers program, as well as activities on the day of burial on the 12th of this month, as a way of showing their love and respect for their fallen patron.
Kahunda Florence, Vice President of the Fort Portal Arsenal Diehards, says Arsenal supporters across the Tooro region have united to mourn the king, who was not only a supporter of the club but also served as patron of the Fort Portal Arsenal Diehards.
The Arsenal fans say they will continue supporting initiatives that promote sports and youth development in Tooro, in memory of the late King Oyo.
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COMPILED BY GORETTE KAJUMBA
