President Tinubu demands explanations over Abubakar Lawal’s death in Uganda
By Olaolu Joseph
Disturbed by the reported death of Nigerian footballer Abubakar Lawal in Uganda under unclear circumstances, President Bola Tinubu has demanded a full investigation to clarify all grey areas surrounding his demise.
According to a statement on Tuesday from the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), its Chairman/CEO, Honourable Abike Dabiri-Erewa, confirmed that Nigeria’s Acting High Commissioner to Uganda, Ambassador Shama Shanga, has requested a full autopsy and a thorough investigation into the incident.
Dabiri-Erewa described Lawal’s death as tragic and suspicious, emphasizing the need for a transparent inquiry.
“We demand a thorough investigation—no cover-up at all. This is so sad! The Nigerian government will ensure and demand a full and transparent investigation. May his soul rest in peace, and may God give his family the fortitude to bear this loss,” she said.
Meanwhile, the Kajjansi Police Division has begun investigating the circumstances surrounding Lawal’s tragic death. The professional footballer, who played for Vipers Sports Club, was reported to have fallen from the third floor of Voicemall Shopping Arcade on the morning of February 24, 2025.
Preliminary reports indicate that Lawal arrived at the shopping mall in his vehicle, registration number UBQ 695G, to meet his friend Omary Naima, a Tanzanian national who had been residing in room 416 since February 20, 2025.
According to Naima, she left Lawal, who was also a final-year student at Cavendish University, in the room preparing tea and proceeded to a game center within the mall. Shortly after, at approximately 8:00 a.m., Lawal reportedly fell from the balcony.
He was rushed to Entebbe Referral Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Items belonging to the deceased—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.
