Mansour Lawal, the elder brother of Abubakar Lawal, a Nigerian football player who tragically lost his life in Uganda last month, has called on both the Nigerian and Ugandan governments to conduct a thorough investigation into his brother’s death to ensure justice is served.
The announcement of Lawal’s death came from his football club and Ugandan authorities on February 24. Initial reports suggested he died in a motorcycle accident; however, officials later stated that he allegedly fell from the balcony of a shopping mall in Kampala while visiting a friend.
The 29-year-old player was laid to rest in Sokoto, his home state, on Tuesday, following tributes from his club, Vipers SC, and their supporters.
“I urge the Nigerian and Ugandan governments to collaborate and work with the Nigerian embassy to guarantee that justice is achieved. They must do everything possible to hold accountable those responsible for Abubakar Lawal’s death,” Mansour stated in a video.
He expressed gratitude towards the Nigerian community and the Sokoto State government, appreciating their support during this difficult time. “On behalf of my family, I thank the president of Vipers Club for ensuring that Abubakar Lawal’s remains returned home. We’re aware it’s not easy. I also thank his friends, teammates, fans, and the Nigerian embassy,” he added.
As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the player’s death, authorities from Uganda, alongside representatives from the Nigerian government and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, have pledged to uncover the truth.
Preliminary reports indicate that Lawal arrived at the shopping mall to meet a friend, a Tanzanian national residing at the mall. Shortly afterward, around 8:00 AM, he reportedly fell from the balcony and was rushed to Entebbe Referral Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The Nigerian Embassy in Uganda has been actively involved in seeking answers and Ambassador Shama Shanga has been in discussions with local authorities demanding a comprehensive investigation. “This situation is deeply troubling and raises suspicions. We call for a complete and transparent inquiry. No cover-up should occur. It is truly heartbreaking, and NiDCOM will advocate for a thorough investigation,” stated the NiDCOM Chairman.
Lawal started his career moving from Wikki Tourists to Nasarawa United in 2019, later joining As Kigali in 2020, and ultimately making his way to Uganda to play for Vipers SC.
