The Federal Government has ordered an in-depth investigation into the murder of Nigerian player Abubakar Lawal in Uganda.
Lawal, a professional footballer for Vipers Sports Club, was reported to have fallen from the third story of the Voicemall Shopping Arcade in Kampala on Monday morning.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerian Diaspora Commission, voiced her worry over the incident in a statement issued by NiDCOM’s spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, on Tuesday.
Dabiri-Erewa said that the circumstances surrounding his death were suspicious.
She added that the Nigerian High Commissioner to Uganda, Ambassador Shama Shanga, has demanded a complete autopsy and thorough investigation.
“This is pathetic and suspicious. We demand a thorough investigation and no cover-up at all. This is so sad!
“The Nigerian government will ensure and demand a thorough and transparent investigation,” she stated.
The statement noted that according to preliminary reports from Ugandan authorities, Lawal had arrived at the shopping mall to meet his friend, Omary Naima, a Tanzanian national.
Naima, who had been staying in Room 416 of the mall since February 20, 2025, left Lawal in the room preparing tea while she went to a nearby game centre.
Shortly afterward, around 8:00 am, Lawal was reported to have fallen from the balcony. He was rushed to Entebbe Referral Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.
The statement further revealed that Police recovered several of Lawal’s personal belongings, including two smartphones, a pair of open shoes, headsets, a training kit, and chargers, all found in his black backpack.
Authorities are currently reviewing CCTV footage and conducting interviews as part of their ongoing investigation.
FG has pledged to ensure that the investigation is thorough and transparent while offering condolences to Lawal’s family.
“May his soul Rest in Peace, and God give the family the fortitude to bear this loss,” Dabiri-Erewa added.
