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The StarTimes Uganda Premier League (UPL) has announced that a minute of silence will be observed in all upcoming matchday 18 fixtures in memory of Abubaker Lawal, the late Nigerian forward who previously played for Vipers SC.
Lawal, a former Ugandan Premier League champion, tragically passed away on Monday, February 24, 2025, under controversial circumstances. Reports indicate that his death resulted from a fatal fall at a shopping mall in Kampala, sparking calls for a thorough investigation into the incident.
In a statement addressed to all top-tier clubs, the Uganda Premier League secretariat expressed deep sorrow over Lawal’s passing and confirmed the league-wide tribute.
“The Uganda Premier League is deeply saddened by the passing of Abubaker Lawal, a player at Vipers SC, which occurred on Monday, February 24, 2025. Accordingly, the league will observe a moment of silence at all matchday 18 fixtures in memory of our departed player,” the UPL statement read.
Lawal’s passing has left a significant impact on the Ugandan football community, with tributes pouring in from fans, clubs, and fellow players.
While the Nigerian Federal Government’s request for further investigations into circumstances that led to the late striker’s death, the minute of silence during the UPL games will serve as a mark of respect for his contributions to the league.
Matchday 18 Fixtures
The StarTimes Uganda Premier League matchday 18 kicks off on Saturday, March 1, 2025, featuring four key fixtures:
Saturday 1st March 2025
- Kitara FC vs URA FC
- Mbale Heroes vs Police FC
- Bright Stars vs BUL FC
- NEC FC vs Lugazi FC (Late-night fixture at Lugogo Stadium)
Sunday 2nd March 2025
- UPDF vs SC Villa
- Maroons vs KCCA FC
- Vipers vs Mbarara City
Monday 3rd March 2025
- Monday vs Wakiso Giants
Vipers are still top of the table with 40 points after 17 games, while NEC are just 3 points on trail. URA in third are with 10 points adrift on the same number of games, followed by BUL at 26 points.
Wakiso Giants, Bright Stars, and Mbale Heroes complete the bottom three on the log.
The league has been on a break since 17th Feb, 2025.
