The sudden and tragic death of Nigerian footballer Abubakar Lawal in Uganda has sparked widespread calls for a thorough and transparent investigation. Lawal, who was playing for Vipers SC in the Ugandan league, was reported to have died today after allegedly falling from a shopping mall.
However, conflicting reports surrounding the circumstances of his demise have raised serious concerns.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), led by Chairman Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has expressed deep suspicion over the incident, emphasizing that a comprehensive inquiry is necessary to ascertain the truth.
“This is pathetic and appears suspicious. We demand a thorough investigation.
No cover-up at all. This is so sad!” Dabiri-Erewa posted on her X handle, stressing NiDCOM’s commitment to ensuring that justice prevails.
Conflicting Reports Fuel Concerns
Initial accounts suggested that Lawal had been involved in an accident, but subsequent reports claimed he fell from a balcony. The inconsistencies have led to increased skepticism about the true nature of the incident.
Super Eagles star Ahmed Musa has joined the call for justice, highlighting the need for Nigerian and Ugandan authorities to work together to uncover the truth.
“It is saddened to receive the news of Abubakar Lawal. The news was a shocking one which prompted me to ask further questions and clarification,” Musa wrote on X. “However, we discovered contrary information about his demise; The first one claimed it was an accident, and the second report claimed he fell from a balcony. The contradicting reports suggest something suspicious about his demise.”
Musa further called on the Nigerian Government and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to collaborate with Ugandan authorities to ensure a thorough probe. “Lawal’s soul deserves a thorough investigation, and justice must be served if anyone is found guilty,” he asserted.
Investigation Underway, Demands for Transparency
According to Ugandan police, Lawal had been visiting a Tanzanian friend who was staying in a residential apartment connected to the mall. The friend reportedly told police that she had left him alone shortly before his fall. Authorities are now retrieving CCTV footage and conducting interrogations to determine the exact circumstances of the incident.
While the Ugandan authorities have assured a comprehensive investigation, Nigerian stakeholders insist on transparency and diligence in the process. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and other sports governing bodies have also expressed their commitment to ensuring justice for the deceased player.
Family and Public Outrage Over the Incident
Lawal’s family, friends, and fans have expressed outrage over the unexplained circumstances of his death. Many have taken to social media to demand justice, using hashtags such as #JusticeForLawal to amplify their calls for a thorough investigation. The football community in Nigeria and beyond has also expressed solidarity, urging authorities to ensure accountability.
Former teammates and colleagues have described Lawal as a dedicated professional with a bright future ahead of him. The uncertainty surrounding his tragic death has left many in mourning and seeking answers.
No Cover-Up, No Injustice
NiDCOM and Musa’s strong stance reflects growing concerns over the safety and well-being of Nigerian nationals abroad. Cases of mysterious deaths involving Nigerians in foreign countries have often gone unresolved, leaving families in pain and uncertainty. Ensuring justice for Lawal will not only bring closure to his grieving loved ones but also send a strong message that Nigerian lives matter and that accountability will be demanded in such cases.
The Nigerian government, through its embassy in Uganda, has pledged to follow up on the investigation, ensuring that all findings are made public. International human rights organizations have also been urged to monitor the case closely.
Call for Diplomatic and Legal Action
Legal experts and human rights advocates have called on the Nigerian government to pursue diplomatic and legal channels to ensure that justice is served. Some have suggested that independent investigators be involved in the process to guarantee objectivity.
Additionally, sports authorities have been advised to improve welfare and security measures for Nigerian athletes playing abroad. Establishing stronger diplomatic ties with host countries and implementing safety protocols could help prevent future incidents of this nature.
Ensuring Justice for Lawal
As the investigation progresses, both Nigerian and Ugandan authorities must work together to establish the truth and ensure that justice is served. Transparency, fairness, and diligence in handling the case will be crucial in preventing future incidents of this nature.
The world is watching, and justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done.
