Nigerian govt demands probe into footballer’s mysterious death in Uganda
By Ukpono Ukpong
The Nigerian government has called for a thorough investigation into the mysterious death of Nigerian footballer Abubakar Lawal in Uganda.
According to a statement by the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Acting Nigerian High Commissioner in Uganda, Ambassador Shama Shanga, has demanded a full autopsy and a transparent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
In the statement, Dabiri-Erewa described the situation as “pathetic and suspicious,” emphasizing that there must be no cover-up in the investigation.
She further assured that the Nigerian government would push for a full and transparent probe to uncover the truth.
“This is pathetic and appears suspicious. We demand a thorough investigation. No cover up at all. This is so sad!
“The Nigerian government will ensure and demand a thorough and transparent investigation. May his soul Rest in Peace and God give the family the fortitude to bear this loss.”, she said.
Meanwhile, Uganda’s Kajjansi Police Division has confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine the circumstances of Lawal’s death.
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The professional footballer, who played for Vipers Sports Club, was reportedly found dead after allegedly falling from the third floor of Voicemall Shopping Arcade on the morning of February 24, 2025.
Preliminary findings revealed that Lawal had arrived at the shopping mall in his vehicle, registration number UBQ 695G, to meet his friend, Omary Naima, a Tanzanian national who had been staying in Room 416 since February 20, 2025.
According to Naima, she left Lawal , who is also a final year student at Cavendish University, in the room preparing tea and proceeded to a game center within the mall. Shortly after, at approximately 8:00 am, Lawal reportedly fell from the balcony.
He was rushed to Entebbe Referral Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Items belonging to the deceased, including two smartphones, a pair of open shoes, headsets, a training kit, and chargers, were recovered from his black backpack.
As part of the ongoing investigation, authorities are retrieving CCTV footage and conducting thorough interrogations to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.
