The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is pressing forward in its quest for clarity regarding the tragic and mysterious death of former Nigeria U20 player Abubakar Lawal, who passed away in Uganda on Monday.
Speaking on Friday, NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, reaffirmed that the federation remains committed to uncovering the truth surrounding the incident. “We will not relent until we fully understand the circumstances that led to Lawal’s death,” he stated.
Initial reports suggested Lawal died in a motorbike or car accident, but later information from Ugandan Police indicated he fell from the third floor of a hotel at the Voicemail Shopping Mall in Bwebajja. He was reportedly visiting Tanzanian national Naima Omary, who had been staying at the hotel for a month. Omary has since been taken into police custody as investigations continue.
Sanusi confirmed that the NFF has contacted the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), seeking assistance in uncovering the truth. “The Federal Government of Nigeria is determined to find answers, and we are working closely with our Ugandan counterparts to establish the facts,” he said.
Following the incident, Sanusi immediately reached out to FUFA Secretary General Edgar Watson Suubi, who acknowledged the conflicting reports. “This is a tragic situation. I have assigned someone to investigate and will share findings from relevant authorities, including the police and medical reports,” Suubi assured.
The NFF has also sent an official letter to FUFA, emphasizing the need for transparency. “There is a great deal of concern in Nigeria over the mystery surrounding Lawal’s passing. We seek clarity on what truly happened and details on how his remains will be repatriated to his family,” the letter stated.
Lawal was a key member of Nigeria’s squad at the FIFA U20 World Cup in New Zealand 10 years ago and had been playing for Ugandan Premier League side Vipers FC before his untimely passing. His death has sent shockwaves through the football community, with many calling for a thorough investigation to provide closure for his family and the Nigerian football fraternity.
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