On the morning of Monday, February 24, the world was left in shock and mourning following the tragic and untimely death of Vipers SC striker Abubakar Lawal.
The Nigerian forward, affectionately known as the “Man from Sokoto,” succumbed to injuries sustained after allegedly falling from the third floor of Voicemall Shopping Arcade in Bwebajja.
Lawal’s passing at just 29 years old has left a void not only at Vipers SC but across the Ugandan football fraternity, and the world at large.
Lawal joined the Venoms on July 18, 2022, from Rwandan side AS Kigali, where he had played for two years.
His arrival at Kitende was met with excitement, and in just a short time, he made an indelible mark on the club’s history.
His most iconic moment came on March 18, 2023, during Vipers’ first and only participation in the CAF Champions League group stages.
In a packed St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende, Vipers were trailing 1-0 against African giants Raja Casablanca, having suffered a heavy 5-0 defeat in the first leg in Morocco.
Yet, in first-half added time, Lawal rose to the occasion, netting Vipers’ first-ever group stage goal in Africa’s premier club competition.
His goal sent the crowd into a frenzy, with fans, players, and even the club president, Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa, leaping with joy.
Though Vipers were already eliminated from the tournament, that goal restored pride and became one of the most cherished moments in the club’s history.
It was also Lawal’s first goal for Vipers; a defining moment that cemented his place in the hearts of the fans.
In the seven months leading up to that unforgettable night, Lawal had quickly adapted to life at Kitende.
“I feel happy and at home. They have showed me love ever since I arrived here,” he said shortly after joining the club.
That bond between Lawal and the Vipers faithful only grew stronger as he became a fan favourite, not only for his contributions on the pitch but for his warmth and humility off it.
In his time at Vipers, Lawal played a pivotal role in the club’s historic 2022/23 season, inspiring the Venoms to their first-ever domestic double by winning both the Uganda Premier League and the Uganda Cup titles.
His commitment and loyalty to the club never wavered, and he was always ready to serve whenever called upon.
Alex Isabirye, the coach who guided Vipers to that remarkable double, reflected on Lawal’s legacy, saying, “Still disturbed and astonished by the demise of Lawal. A talented and happy man he was. His immense contribution to Vipers SC and the football fraternity will never be forgotten.”
FUFA President Moses Magogo also paid tribute, emphasizing Lawal’s impact on Ugandan football.
“Lawal’s immense contribution to Ugandan football will never be forgotten, particularly his pivotal role in Vipers SC’s historic league and Uganda Cup domestic double triumph in the 2022/23 season,” Magogo said.
Lawal was more than just a footballer; he was a people person with a heart of gold.
Vipers SC, in their tribute, described him as a “unique caring person with a heart of gold” who went out of his way to help others.
His welcoming nature earned him the nickname “Mayor” among friends and teammates, reflecting his ability to connect with everyone around him.
“Abubakar Lawal 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. He had a beautiful soul, and we will miss him so much,” read part of the club’s heartfelt tribute.
Despite being Nigerian, Lawal embraced Uganda as his second home.
Friends fondly recall moments when he would cheer on the Uganda Cranes, showing his deep connection to the country.
“We watched the CHAN qualifier between Uganda and Burundi together at Hamz Stadium, and he was cheering for the Ugandan team,” recalled his friend, Ssejjengo Frank.
Lawal was also a devout Muslim, often attending prayers at mosques in Kijapani and Kajjansi, maintaining his spiritual connection while balancing his professional and personal life.
His commitment to personal growth extended beyond football.
Away from the field, he was a loving father of two children, one of whom was born just a month before his passing, adding another layer of tragedy to his sudden departure.
Lawal was also pursuing a course at Cavendish University in Nsambya, showcasing his dedication to education alongside his sporting career.
On the pitch, Lawal’s last appearance for Vipers came on February 16, 2025, when he came on as an 85th-minute substitute for Moses Waiswa in a 2-0 victory over KCCA at Lugogo.
Although he struggled to find form this season, failing to score in eight league appearances, his contributions in the previous season—where he netted five goals—solidified his place in Vipers’ history.
Lawal’s football journey began in his hometown of Sokoto, Nigeria.
Standing at 1.78 meters and weighing 70 kilograms, the right-footed striker started his professional career with Kano Pillars in 2014 before moving to Wikki Tourists, FC Nasarawa, and then AS Kigali, where his performances caught Vipers’ attention.
The news of Lawal’s passing sent shockwaves across the football community. Tributes poured in from teammates and fellow players.
Vipers midfielder Marvin Youngman shared a heartfelt message: “Rest with angels my brother Lawal, Mukama akuhe ekihumuro e’kirungi.”
KCCA’s Bright Anukani added, “When man’s work is over, man will fly away home. Rest in peace with the angels my brother Lawal.”
NBS Sport’s John Vianney Nsimbe echoed the sentiments of many who knew Lawal personally, tweeting, “It is so sad to learn of the passing of Abubakar Lawal. My heartfelt condolences to the Vipers family for losing their player in such a tragic manner.”
“The few times I talked to Lawal, I found him quite warm and welcoming. That makes his passing such a hard thing to accept.” Nsimbe added.
As investigations by the Kajjansi Police Division continue into the circumstances surrounding his tragic fall, the football community mourns a player who was more than just an athlete.
Lawal was a friend, a father, a teammate, and a beacon of positivity who left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered.
His legacy will live on through the memories he created—whether it was the roar of the crowd after his historic CAF Champions League goal or the quiet moments he shared with friends and family.
Abubakar Lawal may be gone, but his spirit, kindness, and contributions to football will never be forgotten.
