NiDCOM Seeks Investigation into Suspicious Death of Nigerian Footballer in Uganda

NiDCOM calls for a thorough investigation into the suspicious death of Abubakar Lawal, a Nigerian football player in Uganda, who allegedly fell from a shopping mall balcony. Initial reports mistakenly indicated a motorcycle accident. Disturbing discrepancies in these accounts have prompted calls for clarity and justice.

The Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has deemed the death of former Nigerian junior international and Vipers SC player Abubakar Lawal to be suspicious, prompting NiDCOM to call for a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. Lawal’s passing was confirmed by both his football club and local police, with initial reports indicating he died in a motorcycle accident. However, subsequent updates from the Ugandan police suggest he may have fallen from a shopping mall balcony in Kampala.

According to police statements, Lawal arrived at the shopping mall in his vehicle to visit a friend, Omary Naima, a Tanzanian resident. Reports indicate that Naima left Lawal preparing tea in her room before she went to a nearby game center. Shortly thereafter, Lawal reportedly fell from the balcony at 8:00 AM, subsequently being rushed to Entebbe Referral Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

In light of this incident and amidst pressure from Nigerians, including Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa, who was a former teammate of Lawal, Abike Dabiri-Erewa confirmed that NiDCOM is actively pursuing the matter. She stated, “The contradicting reports suggest something suspicious about his demise, and I have been in contact with the Nigerian authorities and the Nigeria Football Federation to address this tragic case in Uganda.”

Ambassador Shama Shanga has also been working with Ugandan authorities to ensure a thorough investigation is conducted. Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the need for transparency, stating, “This is pathetic and appears suspicious. We demand a thorough investigation. No cover-up at all. This is so sad. NiDCOM will ensure and demand a thorough and transparent investigation. May his soul rest in peace and God grant the family the strength to withstand this loss.”

Abubakar Lawal, aged 29, had a commendable football career, moving from Wikki Tourists to Nasarawa United in 2019 before joining As Kigali in 2020. After his stint in Rwanda, he transferred to Uganda to play for Vipers SC.

The tragic death of Abubakar Lawal has raised numerous questions regarding the circumstances surrounding his demise. NiDCOM, alongside the Nigerian Embassy and relevant authorities, is demanding a meticulous investigation to uncover the truth and provide justice for Lawal’s family. The need for transparency in this situation is paramount, and there is a collective hope that the facts of the case will be thoroughly examined.

Original Source: punchng.com