By Korede James
Police have clarified that Nigerian forward Abubakar Lawal, who played for Uganda Premier League side Vipers Sports Club, died after falling from a building, and not in a traffic accident as earlier reported.
This is according to a statement by the Uganda Police (via independent.co.ug).
There were reports on Monday that the 29-year-old, who joined Vipers from Rwanda Premier League side AS Kigali in 2022, died in a traffic accident.
It was reported that the former Kano Pillars, Wikki Tourist and Nasarawa United player was on his way to training when the accident happened.
However, the Police have now come out to deny the earlier report, noting that he died after falling from a building.
“Kajjansi Police Division is investigating the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of Nigerian national Abubakar Lawal, a professional footballer at Vipers Sports Club, who allegedly fell from the third floor of Voicemall Shopping Arcade on the morning of February 24, 2025,” the police stated.
“Preliminary reports indicate that Lawal arrived at the shopping mall in his vehicle, registration number UBQ 695G, to meet his friend, Omary Naima, a Tanzanian national residing in room 416 since February 20, 2025.
“According to Naima, she left Lawal in the room preparing tea and proceeded to a game center within the mall. Shortly after, at approximately 8:00 AM, Lawal reportedly fell from the balcony. He was rushed to Entebbe Referral Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
“Items belonging to the deceased, including two smartphones, a pair of open shoes, headsets, a training kit, and chargers, were recovered from his black backpack.
“As part of the ongoing investigation, authorities are retrieving CCTV footage and conducting thorough interrogations to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.
“Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.”
