NiDCOM Investigates Suspicious Death of Nigerian Player Abubakar Lawal in Uganda

NiDCOM, led by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, is investigating the suspicious death of Abubakar Lawal, a Nigerian footballer. Initially reported as a motorcycle accident, Ugandan police suggested he fell from a mall balcony. Calls for justice have emerged, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation involving Nigerian and Ugandan officials.

The Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has termed the death of Abubakar Lawal, a former Nigeria junior international and player for Vipers SC in Uganda, as suspicious. NiDCOM is calling for a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic event, as reported by The PUNCH.

Lawal’s passing was officially reported by his football club and Ugandan authorities, initially attributed to a motorcycle accident. However, Ugandan police later indicated that he allegedly fell from a shopping mall balcony in Kampala. The police’s statement detailed that Lawal had driven to the mall to meet his friend, Omary Naima, a Tanzanian residing in the area.

Naima stated that she left Lawal preparing tea in their room before visiting a game center in the mall. Shortly after, at approximately 8:00 AM, Lawal reportedly fell from the balcony and was subsequently rushed to Entebbe Referral Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.

In response to the incident, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, along with Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa—who was a former teammate of Lawal—has reached out to both Nigerian authorities and the Nigeria Football Federation to advocate for a detailed investigation. She expressed her concerns regarding the conflicting reports surrounding Lawal’s death, underscoring the need for vigilance.

Dabiri-Erewa stated, “The contradicting reports suggest something suspicious about his demise. I am appealing to the Nigerian Government and the NFF to investigate the incident.” She noted that the Nigerian Embassy in Uganda has engaged with local authorities promptly and is demanding a thorough inquiry into the matter.

Highlighting the urgency of this situation, Dabiri-Erewa lamented, “This is pathetic and appears suspicious. We demand a thorough investigation. No cover-up at all. This is so sad.” She assured that NiDCOM will advocate for an exhaustive investigation while also offering condolences, hoping for peace for Lawal’s family.

At just 29 years of age, Lawal transitioned from Wikki Tourists to Nasarawa United in 2019, before moving to As Kigali the following year. After another two years spent in Rwanda, he signed with Vipers SC in Uganda, emphasizing his promising professional journey.

Abubakar Lawal’s death raises serious questions, with conflicting reports leading authorities to pursue a comprehensive investigation. NiDCOM’s active involvement signifies the imperative for transparency in the case. As calls for justice grow, the commitment from both Nigerian and Ugandan authorities is crucial in addressing the suspicions surrounding this tragic incident.

Original Source: punchng.com