The Federal Government on Tuesday expressed deep sorrow over the sudden death of Nigerian professional footballer, Abubakar Lawal, in Uganda.
The Federal Government, in a statement issued by the acting spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, conveyed heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and the entire Nigerian football community.
Lawal, who was a former Nigerian Under-20 International footballer, was playing for Vipers Football Club in Uganda at the time of his death.
He was also a final-year Business Administration student at Cavendish University in Uganda.
Lawal, was reported to have fallen from the third floor of Voicemall Shopping Arcade in Kampala on Monday morning.
In response to the tragedy, FG has directed the Nigerian High Commission in Kampala to work closely with Ugandan authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding Lawal’s death.
The government has ordered a thorough investigation, including an autopsy, to determine the cause of death.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured the public that it would continue to provide necessary consular assistance to the deceased’s family, ensuring their welfare is prioritized during this difficult time.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is deeply saddened by the tragic death of Abubakar Lawal, a Nigerian professional footballer, in Uganda.
“In this moment of grief, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, teammates, and the entire Nigerian football community during this difficult time.
“The Ministry has been in contact with the Nigerian High Commission in Kampala, Uganda, which is working closely with local authorities to ascertain the circumstances surrounding his untimely death.
“We are committed to ensuring that a thorough and transparent investigation is conducted, including an autopsy to verify the cause of death. The Ministry has also directed the High Commission in Kampala to provide all necessary consular assistance to support the family and ensure that justice is served,” the statement read in part.
The Ministry also reaffirmed the strong relationship between Nigeria and Uganda, expressing confidence that the Ugandan authorities would handle the matter with sensitivity and professionalism.
The Federal Government urged Nigerians to remain patient as the investigation unfolds, calling for restraint and discouraging speculation that could hinder the ongoing inquiry.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs pledged to continue monitoring the situation closely to safeguard the interests and well-being of Nigerians abroad.
“The Ministry wishes to buttress the fact that Nigeria values the strong bilateral relations with Uganda, therefore we are confident that the Ugandan authorities will handle this matter with utmost seriousness and sensitivity.
“We call for calm and patience as the investigation unfolds and urges the public to refrain from speculation that could hinder the process.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to monitor the situation closely, while we remain resolute and committed to protecting the welfare and rights of all Nigerian citizens abroad,” the statement concluded.
Gift Habib @ThePUNCH
