Call for Justice Following Tragic Death of Nigerian Player Abubakar Lawal in Uganda

Mansour Lawal, brother of deceased Nigerian player Abubakar Lawal, urges the governments of Nigeria and Uganda to investigate his brother’s death. Initial reports indicated a motorcycle accident, but the police later mentioned a fall from a shopping mall balcony. Ongoing investigations are being overseen by both Nigerian and Ugandan authorities, with concerns for transparency and justice articulated by family and government representatives.
Mansour Lawal, the elder brother of the late Abubakar Lawal, a Nigerian football player who tragically died in Uganda, has called upon both the Nigerian government and Ugandan authorities for a thorough investigation into his brother’s death. This plea is directed toward ensuring justice following the incident, according to reports from The PUNCH.
Abubakar Lawal’s death was initially reported to have occurred in a motorcycle accident; however, Ugandan police later clarified that he allegedly fell from the balcony of a shopping mall in Kampala while visiting a Tanzanian friend. The 29-year-old was laid to rest in Sokoto, Nigeria, on February 25, and received tributes from his club, Vipers SC, and fans thereafter.
In a video shared by Vipers SC, Mansour stated, “I am also urging the Nigerian government and the Ugandan government to please work with the Nigerian embassy to ensure justice prevails. They should try their best to bring whoever is responsible for Abubakar Lawal’s death to book.” He expressed gratitude towards the Nigerian government and the Sokoto State government for their support during this tragic moment.
Authorities in Uganda have announced that the investigation into Lawal’s death is still in progress. The Nigerian High Commission and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) are also committed to uncovering the circumstances surrounding this incident, following a report on the player’s vehicle arrival at the mall to meet his friend, Omary Naima.
Ambassador Shama Shanga of the Nigerian Embassy has been actively discussing the matter with Ugandan officials, pressing for a comprehensive inquiry. NiDCOM Chairman Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the need for complete transparency in the investigation, stating, “This is pathetic and appears suspicious. We demand a thorough investigation. No cover-up at all. This is so sad.” Lawal, who previously played for Wikki Tourists and Nasarawa United in Nigeria before moving to other teams, had been with Vipers SC in Uganda at the time of his death.
The tragic death of Abubakar Lawal has ignited calls for an extensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding his demise. Both the Nigerian and Ugandan governments, as well as the Nigerian High Commission, are involved in pursuing justice for the deceased player. The commitment expressed by Mansour Lawal and NiDCOM representatives underscores the importance of transparency in this matter, highlighting the need for accountability in such unfortunate events.
Original Source: punchng.com