The Nigerian government has called for a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of Nigerian footballer Abubakar Lawal in Uganda.
The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, expressed deep concern over the incident in a statement signed by the Commission’s spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun. She described the news as highly disturbing and called for transparency in the ongoing investigation.
Dabiri-Erewa emphasized that Lawal’s death occurred under unclear circumstances and noted that the Acting Nigerian High Commissioner to Uganda, Ambassador Shama Shanga, has demanded a comprehensive autopsy and a thorough inquiry into the matter.
“This situation is deeply distressing and raises serious concerns. We demand a transparent and detailed investigation—there must be no cover-up,” Dabiri-Erewa stated. “The Nigerian government will ensure that the investigation is conducted with integrity. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, and we pray for the repose of his soul.”
According to initial reports from the Kajjansi Police Division in Uganda, authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding Lawal’s death. The professional footballer, who played for Vipers Sports Club and was a final-year student at Cavendish University, reportedly fell from the third floor of Voicemall Shopping Arcade on the morning of February 24, 2025.
Preliminary findings indicate that Lawal had arrived at the shopping mall in his vehicle, registered UBQ 695G, to meet his friend, Omary Naima, a Tanzanian national residing in room 416 since February 20, 2025. Naima reported that she left Lawal in the room preparing tea and proceeded to a gaming center within the mall. Shortly thereafter, at approximately 8:00 AM, Lawal was said to have fallen from the balcony.
He was immediately rushed to Entebbe Referral Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Authorities recovered several of Lawal’s personal belongings, including two smartphones, a pair of open shoes, headsets, a training kit, and chargers, from his black backpack.
As part of the ongoing investigation, Ugandan authorities are reviewing CCTV footage and conducting extensive interrogations to ascertain the exact circumstances leading to the incident.
