The Nigerian government has ordered a full investigation into the mysterious death of a footballer who is said to have fallen from the third floor of a building in Uganda.
According to the BBC, Nigerian footballer Abubakar Lawal died under mysterious circumstances on the morning of 24 February in the Ugandan capital, Kampala.
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Lawal, who played for Vipers Sports Club in Uganda, was visiting a friend identified as Tanzanian national Omary Naima at the Voicemall Shopping Arcade when he met his demise.
Naima is said to be a tenant in one of the rooms at the shopping centre, and she alleges that she left Lawal making tea in her room before his death.
Lawal was reportedly found lying on the ground after falling from the third-floor balcony of the mall. Upon being taken to hospital, Lawal was soon pronounced dead as a result of his puzzling fall.
Now, the Nigerian Embassy in Uganda has demanded a full autopsy and an extensive probe into the tragic circumstances surrounding the incident.
"This is pathetic and appears suspicious," Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, said in a statement.
"We insist on a comprehensive inquiry. Not even a cover-up. This is really depressing!
"The Nigerian government will ensure and demand a thorough and transparent investigation.
"May his soul Rest in Peace and God give the family the fortitude to bear this loss," she said.
Many tributes have been pouring in the wake of Lawal's death, with his club Vipers SC writing in a post on X: "Lawal (Man from Sokoto) was a unique person.
"He had a big heart of gold. He really cared about people and went out of his way to help. He was incredibly generous."
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By Lukhanyo Mtuta
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