By Victor Kanayo
The death of Nigerian footballer Abubakar Lawal in Uganda has sparked controversy and suspicion.
Heritage Times HT reports that Lawal, who transferred from Rwanda’s AS Kigali to Ugandan champions Vipers, was initially reported to have died in a motorcycle accident in Kampala. However, recent revelations suggest he may have been killed by unknown persons.
Nigerian Government Demands Probe
In response to his death, the Nigerian government has called for a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), stated that the Nigerian Embassy in Uganda has demanded a full autopsy and a thorough investigation.
“This is pathetic and appears suspicious. We demand a thorough investigation—no cover-up at all. This is so sad!” Dabiri-Erewa said in a statement.
“The Nigerian government will ensure and demand a transparent investigation. May his soul rest in peace, and may God give the family the strength to bear this loss,” she added.
Preliminary Police Report
The Kajjansi Police Division has launched an investigation into Lawal’s death, initially reported as a fall from the third floor of Voicemall Shopping Arcade on the morning of 24 February 2025.
According to a police statement, Lawal arrived at the shopping mall in his vehicle (registration number UBQ 695G) to meet his friend, Omary Naima, a Tanzanian national residing in room 416 since 20 February.
Naima claimed she left Lawal, who was also in his final year as a student, in the room preparing tea and proceeded to a gaming centre 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 Lawal, 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,” the statement added.
Lawal’s Career Path
Lawal, 29, joined Vipers in 2022 after two seasons at AS Kigali, helping the Ugandan club win the league title in the 2022/23 season.
He also played a key role in qualifying the team for the group stage of the CAF Champions League under current coach Rayon Robertinho.
So far this season, Lawal had featured in eight league games for Vipers.
