Demands for Justice: The Tragic Death of Nigerian Footballer Abubakar Lawal in Uganda

Mansour Lawal seeks justice for his brother Abubakar’s death in Uganda, pleading for thorough investigations by Nigerian and Ugandan authorities. Initial reports on his death were conflicting, citing a motorcycle accident and a fall from a mall balcony. The Nigerian government, alongside the Ugandan authorities, has promised to investigate the incident while Lawal’s contributions to football are being remembered.

Mansour Lawal, elder brother of the deceased Nigerian footballer Abubakar Lawal, has called for justice following the player’s tragic death in Uganda. He has requested that both the Nigerian government and Ugandan authorities thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding his brother’s passing, as reported by The PUNCH.

Abubakar Lawal’s death was first announced by his football club and the Ugandan Police on February 24. Initial reports indicated he died in a motorcycle accident; however, authorities later stated he fell from a balcony of a shopping mall in Kampala while visiting a friend from Tanzania. Following his death, the 29-year-old was buried in his home state of Sokoto, garnering tributes from his club, Vipers SC, and their supporters.

In a video shared by Vipers SC, Mansour stated his plea for justice: “I am also urging the Nigerian government and the Ugandan government to please work with the Nigerian embassy to ensure justice prevails.” He expressed gratitude to the officials and supporters for their assistance during this difficult time and for facilitating the return of Abubakar’s remains.

The Ugandan authorities have announced an ongoing investigation into the cause of Lawal’s death. Meanwhile, the Nigerian government, including the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission and the Nigerian High Commission in Uganda, has promised to look into the matter seriously. According to the Uganda Police, preliminary reports showed that Lawal arrived at the mall in his vehicle to meet a friend who had been staying there since February 20.

After leaving Lawal in his room, the friend reportedly went to a game center within the mall. Shortly thereafter, Lawal fell from the balcony, was taken to Entebbe Referral Hospital, and was pronounced dead upon arrival. NiDCOM Chairman Abike Dabiri-Erewa has stressed the need for a thorough and transparent investigation, insisting on no cover-ups in this unfortunate incident.

Abubakar Lawal’s football journey began with Wikki Tourists, followed by a stint at Nasarawa United in 2019. He later played for As Kigali in Rwanda before joining Vipers in Uganda.

The tragic circumstances of Abubakar Lawal’s death have prompted significant calls for justice from his family and the Nigerian government. With ongoing investigations in Uganda and support from various officials, there is hope for transparency and accountability in determining the factors surrounding his passing. Lawal’s legacy continues as his contributions to football are honored by fans and peers alike.

Original Source: punchng.com