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On Thursday, February 27, 2025, Vipers SC held Dua prayers in honor of their fallen Nigerian forward, Abubaker Lawal, marking a sombre moment for the Ugandan football fraternity.
The 29-year-old tragically passed away on Monday morning, with initial police reports indicating he allegedly fell from the balcony of Voice Shopping Mall in Bwebajja, where he had gone to meet a Tanzanian friend, Omary Naima.
Lawal, who joined Vipers in July 2022 from Rwanda’s AS Kigali, played a crucial role in the club’s 2022/23 domestic double triumph. He also made history by scoring Vipers’ first-ever CAF Champions League group-stage goal in a 1-1 draw against Raja Casablanca on March 18, 2023, at Kitende.
The Late Lawal celebrating an away goal against Kitara FC in the 2023/24 UPL season (courtey photo)
His final league appearance came against KCCA FC, where he featured as an 85th-minute substitute, while his last matchday involvement was as an unused substitute in the Stanbic Uganda Cup victory over Mbarara City. This season, he had played in eight league matches for the Venoms.
Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa Demands Thorough Investigations
During the emotional prayer session, Vipers SC President, Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa, called upon the Police and other security agencies to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding Lawal’s untimely passing.
“I call upon the Police and other authorities to conduct proper investigations. We may not be able to bring Lawal back, but we deserve to know the truth about his death.”
Dr. Mulindwa reflected on Lawal’s exceptional character, describing him as a model professional.
Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa during the Dua prayers for the fallen Abubakar Lawal (courtesy photo)
“You don’t need a dictionary to define professionalism—Lawal embodied it. He was disciplined, respectful, and a true leader both on and off the pitch.”
“Ask any of his fellow players or coaches, and they will tell you the same. He was a man of high integrity, treating everyone—from teammates to club administrators—with respect. He loved this club and gave his all for it.”
Lawal’s Dedication and Unfinished Mission at Vipers
Dr. Mulindwa revealed how Lawal had turned down transfer opportunities in his quest to bring another trophy to St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende.
“When his contract expired, he told me, ‘I want to leave, but I can’t go without winning another trophy.’ That was Lawal—determined, committed, and passionate about Vipers.”
To honor Lawal’s memory, Vipers SC will dedicate their Uganda Premier League match against Mbarara City FC on Sunday, March 2, 2025, to him.
“I urge all friends and supporters to attend Sunday’s game to pay tribute to our foreign hero.”
Repatriation of Lawal’s Body to Nigeria
Dr. Mulindwa also provided updates on the repatriation process, emphasizing the logistical challenges involved.
“Transporting a body across international borders is a complicated and costly process, requiring numerous clearances and approvals. In some cases, it takes months.”
He confirmed that arrangements had been finalized, and Lawal’s body would be flown back to Nigeria on Sunday.
“Lawal was from Sokoto, about 984 kilometers from Lagos. Since most flights from Entebbe land in Lagos, further transportation was a challenge, as domestic flights in Nigeria are not licensed for body repatriation.”
“To honor his memory, we chartered a special flight from Lagos to Sokoto, despite the high costs. Lawal gave everything to this club, and we have ensured he gets the dignified send-off he deserves.”
Abubakar Lawal celebrating after his club Vipers clinched the double (Courtesy photo)
A Final Goodbye
As the Vipers SC family, fans, and the football community gathered to pray for Abubaker Lawal, one message stood out—he was more than just a footballer; he was a leader, a professional, and a man of honor.
His legacy at Vipers SC and Ugandan football will endure, inspiring generations to come.
Rest in Peace, Abubaker Lawal.
Lawal joined Vipers in July 2022, and his role in our success was crucial. When his contract expired, he told me, ‘I want to go, but I can’t leave without a trophy.’ He was determined to stay and help Vipers reclaim glory. That was Lawal’s mission, and the mission must continue. It calls for calmness and focus.”
In honor of Lawal, we are dedicating our game on Sunday, March 2, 2025, against Mbarara City FC to him. I call upon all friends and supporters to come and watch that game in respect of our foreign hero.”
The Repatriation Process for Lawal’s Body
Dr. Mulindwa also provided an update on the efforts to repatriate Lawal’s body to Nigeria, emphasizing the challenges and costs involved.
Repatriating a body from one country to another is not easy. It requires numerous documents and processes, which is why, in some cases, it takes months. But I am happy that in the last two days, a lot has been done.”*
He confirmed that Lawal’s body will be flown back to Nigeria on Sunday, acknowledging the significant expenses involved in chartering a special flight.
Lawal was from Sokoto, which is 984 kilometers from Lagos. Most flights from Entebbe go to Lagos, but transporting a body beyond that is a challenge because domestic flights are not licensed for such purposes.”
So, we had to charter a plane from Lagos to Sokoto, which is very expensive, but in respect of our fallen hero, we have ensured that all payments are made and arrangements are in place.”
A Final Goodbye
As the Vipers SC family, fans, and well-wishers gathered to pray for Abubaker Lawal, the message was clear: he was not just a talented footballer but a true professional, a leader, and a man of honor.
His legacy at Vipers SC and in Ugandan football will live on, and his dream of leading the club to more glory will continue to inspire those he left behind.
Rest in Peace, Abubaker Lawal.
Pictorial moments
