By 
Ugandan police have launched an investigation into the mysterious death of Nigerian professional footballer Abubakar Lawal, who was pronounced dead in the morning hours of the Monday February 24, 2025.
The latest information has revealed a rather different turn of events, from a reported motorbike accident to now and alleged falling from a shopping mall around Kampala.
Lawal, 29, reportedly fell from a third-floor balcony at the Voicemall Shopping Arcade, where he had gone to visit a Tanzanian friend.
The striker was rushed to hospital but was tragically pronounced dead upon arrival.
According to police, Lawal’s friend, identified as Omary Naima, had left him alone in her room—part of the shopping mall complex—while he was preparing tea.
Moments later, the fatal fall occurred. Authorities are now working to establish the exact circumstances surrounding his death.
Unanswered Questions
Lawal’s untimely passing has sparked widespread speculation, with conflicting reports emerging over the cause of his death.
While initial reports suggested he had been involved in a motorcycle accident, police have since confirmed he fell from the mall’s balcony.
CCTV footage is being reviewed, and witnesses are being questioned as investigators work to piece together what happened in the moments leading up to the tragedy.
The Police have also recovered several of Lawal’s belongings, including two smartphones, shoes, headsets, and a training kit.
They have promised further updates as inquiries continue.
Football Community in Mourning
Lawal, a key player for Ugandan club Vipers SC, had been with the team since July 2022, following a two-year stint with Rwanda’s AS Kigali.
Tributes have been pouring in from teammates, former clubs, and the wider footballing community.
Vipers SC expressed their sorrow, describing Lawal as “a unique person with a heart of gold.”
His former Nigerian club, Nasarawa United, also paid tribute, stating, “We mourn the sudden demise of our ex-player Abubakar Lawal earlier today. May God grant him eternal rest.”
Ugandan footballer Mustafa Kizza echoed the grief, writing, “It’s hard to take in that you’re no more, Lawal. A kind, talented, jolly, and loving person you have been. You will forever be missed, bro.”
https://x.com/kizza_mustafa/status/1894026444499460272
As authorities continue with investigations into the circumstances of Lawal’s tragic death, many are left wondering what truly happened on that fateful day at Voicemall Shopping Arcade.
For now, the footballing world mourns the loss of a promising talent gone too soon.
