NiDCOM Seeks Investigation Into Suspicious Death of Nigerian Footballer in Uganda
Abubakar Lawal, a Nigerian footballer playing for Vipers SC in Uganda, died under suspicious circumstances. Initially thought to be a motorcycle accident, police reports now suggest he fell from a mall balcony. NiDCOM is requesting a thorough investigation, reflecting widespread concern among Nigerians, including Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa.
The Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has expressed concern over the suspicious circumstances surrounding the death of Abubakar Lawal, a former Nigerian junior international and player for Vipers SC in Uganda. NiDCOM plans to officially request an exhaustive investigation into this incident, following reports about competing narratives regarding Lawal’s demise.
Lawal’s death was reported by both his football club and Ugandan authorities, initially stated to be due to a motorcycle accident. However, subsequent statements from the police indicated that Lawal fell from a shopping mall balcony in Kampala. Police reports noted that Lawal had arrived at the mall in his vehicle and had met a friend prior to the incident.
Witness accounts reveal that Lawal was in the company of Omary Naima, a Tanzanian national, who left him to prepare tea while she went to a game center in the mall. Shortly after, Lawal is said to have fallen from the balcony around 8:00 AM and was later pronounced dead at Entebbe Referral Hospital, raising significant alarm regarding the exact nature of the incident.
Amid rising concerns and calls for justice from fellow Nigerian athletes, including Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa, NiDCOM’s Dabiri-Erewa highlighted the need for thorough inquiries. She stated she is coordinating with Nigerian officials and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to ensure that the Ugandan government investigates the matter meticulously to uncover the truth about Lawal’s death.
Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “This is pathetic and appears suspicious. We demand a thorough investigation. No cover-up at all.” Meanwhile, the Nigerian Embassy in Uganda, led by Ambassador Shama Shanga, has been actively engaging with local authorities to pursue a detailed investigation into the incident, ensuring swift action following their informed status on the matter. Lawal, at 29 years, transitioned from Wikki Tourists to several clubs, including Nasarawa United and As Kigali, before joining Vipers SC.
The tragic death of Abubakar Lawal in Uganda has prompted urgent calls for a thorough investigation due to the conflicting accounts surrounding his demise. NiDCOM and Nigerian officials are actively seeking justice by collaborating with Ugandan authorities. Lawal’s situation highlights the need for clarity and transparency in such incidents, ensuring that the truth surrounding his passing is unearthed.
Original Source: punchng.com
