NiDCOM Calls for Investigation into Suspicious Death of Nigerian Player Abubakar Lawal
NiDCOM is investigating the suspicious death of Abubakar Lawal, a Nigerian footballer. Initially reported as a motorcycle accident, authorities now state he fell from a shopping mall balcony. The commission calls for an in-depth investigation to clarify conflicting reports surrounding his death, with support from the Nigerian Embassy and Football Federation.
The death of Abubakar Lawal, a former Nigerian junior international and player for Vipers SC in Uganda, has raised suspicions. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), announced that they will seek an in-depth investigation into the matter. Lawal’s death was initially reported as a motorcycle accident, but Ugandan police later stated he allegedly fell from a shopping mall balcony in Kampala.
According to the Ugandan Police statement, Lawal had arrived at the shopping mall to meet a friend, Omary Naima, a Tanzanian national. Naima reported that she left Lawal in a hotel room preparing tea while she visited a game center. Shortly afterwards, at approximately 8:00 AM, Lawal fell from the balcony and was later pronounced dead at Entebbe Referral Hospital.
Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the need for a thorough investigation following conflicting accounts regarding Lawal’s death. She is in communication with the Nigerian authorities and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) urging them to collaborate with the Ugandan government for justice. Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa, a former teammate, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the need for clarity in the investigation.
The Nigerian Embassy in Uganda, led by Ambassador Shama Shanga, has been proactive since the announcement, engaging local authorities to demand a thorough enquiry. “This is pathetic and appears suspicious. We demand a thorough investigation. No cover-up at all,” said Dabiri-Erewa, emphasizing the urgency of the situation and the need for transparency in the investigative process. Lawal, aged 29, had a professional career spanning several teams, including Wikki Tourists and As Kigali, before joining Vipers SC.
Abubakar Lawal’s death, initially labeled as an accident, is under scrutiny due to inconsistencies in the reports surrounding the incident. NiDCOM is advocating for a comprehensive investigation involving both Nigerian and Ugandan authorities. The focus remains on ensuring justice for Lawal and clarity for his family and the concerned public. As of now, Lawal’s professional journey came to a tragic end, raising more questions than answers about the circumstances of his demise.
Original Source: punchng.com
