By our correspondent
The Nigerian government has called for a full investigation into the death of Nigerian footballer Abubakar Lawal in Uganda.
Lawal, a professional player for Vipers Sports Club, reportedly fell from the third floor of a shopping arcade in Kajjansi on February 24.
The Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, described the incident as “pathetic and suspicious,” stressing that the Nigerian Embassy in Uganda has demanded a comprehensive autopsy and an impartial probe.
“This is so sad! We demand a thorough and transparent investigation. No cover-up at all,” Dabiri-Erewa stated. “May his soul rest in peace, and may God grant his family the strength to bear this loss.”
Authorities in Uganda have confirmed an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding Lawal’s death.
According to the Kajjansi Police Division, Lawal reportedly visited Voicemall Shopping Arcade early on February 24 in his vehicle, registration number UBQ 695G.
He was said to have gone to meet a friend, Omary Naima, a Tanzanian national residing in room 416 of the mall since February 20.
Naima told investigators that she left Lawal in her room preparing tea while she went to a nearby game center. Shortly after, at around 8:00 a.m., Lawal allegedly fell from the balcony.
He was rushed to Entebbe Referral Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.