KAMPALA – A somber mood has settled over the Vipers Sports Club and the football community at large, following the tragic death of Nigerian national Abubakar Lawal. The 25-year-old professional footballer allegedly fell from the third floor of Voicemall Shopping Arcade in Kajjansi on the morning of February 24, 2025.
According to Luke Owoyesigyire, Kampala Metropolitan Police Deputy Spokesperson, 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. Naima reported that she left Lawal in the room preparing tea and proceeded to a game center within the mall.
Tragedy struck shortly after, at approximately 8:00 AM, when Lawal reportedly fell from the balcony. He was rushed to Entebbe Referral Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
“We are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of Abubakar Lawal,” Owoyesigyire said. “We have recovered items belonging to the deceased, including two smartphones, a pair of open shoes, headsets, a training kit, and chargers, 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.
“We urge anyone with information regarding this incident to come forward and assist us in our investigation,” Owoyesigyire added. “Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.”
The football community has been left reeling from the news, with tributes pouring in for the young footballer. Vipers Sports Club has released a statement expressing their shock and sadness at the loss of their player.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our player, Abubakar Lawal,” the club said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and teammates during this difficult time.”
