The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has confirmed the death of a former Nigerian Under-20 International footballer, Abubakar Lawal, in Uganda.
The Acting Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, expressed the ministry’s sadness over the passing of Abubakar, a professional footballer with Vipers Football Club in Uganda and a final-year Business Administration student at Cavendish University, in a statement issued in Abuja.
“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. Late Abubakar Lawal was a former Nigerian Under-20 International footballer, and until his unfortunate demise, he was playing professional football with Vipers Football Club in Uganda and was also a final year Business Administration student of Cavendish University”, Ebienfa said.
Also, according to Ebienfa, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is collaborating with the Nigerian High Commission in Kampala and local authorities to investigate Abubakar’s death, including conducting an autopsy, while providing consular support to his family.
“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,” Ebienfa stated further.
“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.
May the soul of Mr. Abubakar Lawal, rest in perfect peace,” Ebienfa also said.
