NiDCOM Demands Investigation into Suspicious Death of Nigerian Player Abubakar Lawal
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of NiDCOM, has called for a thorough investigation into the suspicious death of Nigerian player Abubakar Lawal, who reportedly fell from a shopping mall balcony in Uganda. Lawal’s death has raised concerns among Nigerian officials, and the Nigerian Embassy in Uganda is actively pursuing the matter. Calls have been made for cooperation between Nigerian and Ugandan authorities to ensure justice for Lawal.
The Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has expressed concerns regarding the suspicious circumstances surrounding the death of former Nigerian junior international and Vipers SC player, Abubakar Lawal. NiDCOM plans to pursue a thorough investigation into this tragic incident as reported by The PUNCH.
Lawal’s death was reported by his football club and the Ugandan Police on Monday, initially described as a motorcycle accident. Subsequent information revealed that he reportedly fell from a shopping mall balcony in Kampala, Uganda’s capital. Uganda Police stated that Lawal had driven to the mall to meet his friend, Omary Naima, a Tanzanian national.
Naima left Lawal preparing tea in their hotel room while she visited a game center in the mall. It was later reported that at approximately 8:00 AM, Lawal fell from the balcony and was taken to Entebbe Referral Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
In light of the differing accounts of his death and growing calls from the Nigerian community, including Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa, Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the need for a comprehensive investigation. The NiDCOM Chairman stated that she had contacted Nigerian authorities and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) regarding this grave matter.
Dabiri-Erewa noted, “The contradicting reports suggest something suspicious about his demise.” She appealed to the Nigerian Government and the NFF to collaborate with Ugandan officials in seeking justice for Lawal. The Nigerian Embassy in Uganda is actively involved, with Ambassador Shama Shanga calling for a thorough investigation following the report of Lawal’s death.
Dabiri-Erewa remarked on the situation, stating, “This is pathetic and appears suspicious.” She reiterated NiDCOM’s commitment to ensuring a transparent investigation without any cover-ups, extending condolences to the grieving family. Lawal, 29, had previously played for Wikki Tourists and Nasarawa United before moving to Rwanda and subsequently to Vipers SC in Uganda.
The tragic and suspicious death of Abubakar Lawal has prompted calls for a thorough investigation by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission. Both Nigerian and Ugandan authorities are urged to collaborate in uncovering the truth behind this incident. NiDCOM remains steadfast in their commitment to transparency and justice for Lawal’s family.
Original Source: punchng.com
