By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Football fraternity, Creative Industry says goodbye to a vibrant personality that lit up rooms and conversations.
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot… Ecclesiastes 3.
The former SABC sports football commentator, voice over artist and music rights activist Owen Ndlovu will be laid to rest on Friday, 25 September 2026, while a memorial service is expected to be held a week after.
The family is expected to provide further details in due course.
Ndlovu, 54, was found dead in Thokoza on Wednesday morning, 16 September 2026, after he was hijacked and kidnapped while fetching his wife from church in Katlehong.
SA Police Services (SAPS) have since opened a murder investigation and launched a manhunt for three suspects.
His Ford Raptor was later recovered abandoned in Walkerville.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Crime Stop line on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPSApp.
Family spokesperson Eugene Mthethwa has separately appealed to the public to remove photographs of Ndlovu’s body from social media, saying the images were distressing for his children.
The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has expressed his deep sadness at the death of Ndlovu.
“Owen Ndlovu gave many years of his life to South African sport and South African music, informing and entertaining our people and standing up for the rights of our artists. His death, under circumstances no family should ever have to endure, is a profound loss to our broadcasting and creative sectors,” said McKenzie.
The Minister has conveyed his heartfelt condolences to Ndlovu’s wife, family, friends and colleagues, and, in line with the family’s request through their spokesperson, appeals to members of the public and the media to exercise sensitivity and respect the family’s privacy.
McKenzie expressed his full support for the South African Police Service (SAPS) investigation and called for those responsible to be brought to justice.
The writer had a privilege to work with Ndlovu, he was a familiar voice during his years with the SABC.
One of the memorable lines was “ubani ikhehla” during his football commentary, and that is how many football fanatics will remember him.
He later became involved with Artists United and the SABC Summer Song of the Year concept.
Ndlovu lived a colourful, energetic life that reflected his passion for sport, media and the creative industry.
Fullview extends its heartfelt condolences to Ndlovu’s family, friends and colleagues. Uyibekile induku ebandla, Gatsheni, Boya benyathi, Obusonga busombuluka.