The Federal Government has demanded a full investigation into the tragic death of Nigerian footballer Abubakar Lawal in Uganda. Lawal, a player for Vipers Sports Club, reportedly fell from the third floor of Voicemall Shopping Arcade in Kampala on Monday morning.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), expressed deep concern over the incident in a statement issued by the commission’s spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, on Tuesday. Dabiri-Erewa described the circumstances of his death as suspicious.
She also noted that Ambassador Shama Shanga, Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Uganda, has called for a full autopsy and a thorough investigation.
“This is a tragic and suspicious incident. We demand a comprehensive investigation with no cover-up. It is heartbreaking,” she stated. “The Nigerian government is committed to ensuring that the investigation is transparent and rigorous.”
Preliminary reports from Ugandan authorities indicate that Lawal had gone to the shopping mall to meet his friend, Omary Naima, a Tanzanian national. Naima, who had been staying in Room 416 since February 20, 2025, left Lawal in the room while she went to a nearby game center. Soon after, at approximately 8:00 am, Lawal was found to have fallen from the balcony. He was rushed to Entebbe Referral Hospital but was declared dead upon arrival.
Authorities also recovered several of Lawal’s personal items, including two smartphones, a pair of open shoes, headsets, a training kit, and chargers, all stored in a black backpack. The police are reviewing CCTV footage and conducting interviews as part of their ongoing investigation.
The Federal Government has vowed to ensure a thorough and transparent inquiry and extended condolences to Lawal’s family.
“May his soul rest in peace, and may God grant his family the strength to bear this devastating loss,” Dabiri-Erewa added.
