Tragedy as Nigerian footballer falls to death in Uganda

Ugandan police have launched an investigation into the tragic death of Nigerian footballer Abubakar Lawal, who fell from a shopping mall balcony in Kampala. 

The 29-year-old striker, who played for Ugandan Premier League club Vipers SC, reportedly fell from the third floor of the Voicemall Shopping Arcade early Monday morning, according to a police statement.

Lawal was said to be visiting a Tanzanian friend residing in one of the mall’s residential apartments when the incident occurred. Authorities are currently working to determine the circumstances surrounding his fall.

The friend told police she had left him alone shortly before the fall.

“Authorities are retrieving CCTV footage and conducting thorough interrogations to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the incident,” police said.

The Vipers Sports Club said in a statement: “We are deeply saddened to announce the sudden and untimely passing of our beloved player, Abubakar Lawal, who left us this morning.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Lawal’s family, club fans, friends and loved ones during this difficult time,” it added.

Lawal had been the team’s striker since joining the club on in July 2022 after two years with AS Kigali in Rwanda.