NiDCOM Calls for Investigation into Nigerian Footballer Abubakar Lawal’s Death in Uganda

Abubakar Lawal, a former Nigerian footballer for Vipers SC in Uganda, has died under suspicious circumstances. Initially reported as a motorcycle accident, authorities later stated he fell from a mall balcony. The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission is calling for an in-depth investigation into the case amid growing concern from his peers and officials.

The Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has expressed concerns regarding the suspicious circumstances surrounding the death of Abubakar Lawal, a former junior international footballer from Nigeria and player for Vipers SC in Uganda. NiDCOM asserts the need for a comprehensive investigation into this tragic incident, as originally reported by The PUNCH.

Lawal’s death was confirmed by both his football club and Ugandan authorities. Initial reports indicated a motorcycle accident; however, the police later suggested that he fell from a shopping mall balcony in Kampala. According to police reports, Lawal had arrived at the mall in his vehicle to meet a friend, Omary Naima, a Tanzanian national.

Naima reported that she left Lawal in their room while she went to a game center in the mall. Shortly after her departure and around 8:00 AM, Lawal fell from the balcony. He was immediately transported to Entebbe Referral Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

In response to the news, there have been calls for action from Nigerians and fellow athletes, including Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa, who played alongside Lawal. Dabiri-Erewa emphasized that NiDCOM is actively pursuing the matter and has contacted relevant Nigerian authorities and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to seek justice.

Ambassador Shama Shanga from the Nigerian Embassy in Uganda has already begun discussions with local authorities regarding the incident. Dubbed as “pathetic” and appearing “suspicious,” Dabiri-Erewa insisted on a thorough investigation free from any cover-up. She stated her determination to demand transparency in the inquiry into Lawal’s unfortunate demise.

Lawal, aged 29, transitioned from Wikki Tourists to Nasarawa United in 2019 and subsequently joined As Kigali in 2020. After spending two years in Rwanda, he relocated to Uganda to play for Vipers SC.

The tragic and suspicious death of Abubakar Lawal has raised significant concern among prominent figures in Nigeria. The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, led by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, is demanding a thorough investigation in collaboration with Ugandan authorities to ensure transparency and justice for the late footballer. Continued calls from his former teammates emphasize the urgent need for clarity regarding the circumstances surrounding his death.

Original Source: punchng.com