Late Nigerian footballer, Abubakar Lawal
Nigerian footballer Abubakar Lawal died after falling from a shopping mall in Kampala, Uganda, during a visit to a friend.
According to reports, the 29-year-old footballer fell from the third-floor balcony at the Voicemail Shopping Arcade, where he had gone to visit his Tanzanian friend.
It was disclosed that the deceased’s friend, named Omary Naima, had left him in a room and was preparing tea prior to the incident.
The Ugandan police have launched an investigation into the case to ascertain the circumstances leading to the demise and take necessary steps.
“Authorities are retrieving CCTV footage and conducting thorough interrogations to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the incident,” the police said.
The police have retrieved some items belonging to the deceased player, including two smartphones, shoes, headsets, and a training kit.
“Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses,” they added.
Despite these efforts, the Nigerian police have been advised to also investigate the case separately to ensure transparency prevails.
Lawal was playing for local Nigerian club Vipers Sports and played a key role as a striker in helping the team’s fortunes.
The club noted that they are saddened by the “untimely passing of our beloved player” and would continue to support him as the probe continues.
His former teammate Nasarawa United said, “We mourn the sudden demise of our ex-player Abubakar Lawal earlier today. May God grant him eternal rest.”
He had been with the Vipers since July 2022, after playing two years for AS Kigali in Rwanda.
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