Following the burial of Abubakar Lawal in Sokoto State, Nigeria, local officials and community members are urging Vipers to sign another Nigerian player to continue the late striker’s legacy.
Lawal, who tragically passed away on February 24, 2025, was laid to rest on March 3 in his ancestral village, with hundreds of mourners in attendance, including family members, football officials, and a delegation from Vipers led by club official Kenneth Muwanga.
The 29-year-old had joined Vipers SC in July 2022 from Rwanda’s AS Kigali and quickly became a fan favorite.
Known for his discipline, humility, and deep religious faith, he frequently attended prayers at Masjid Bwebajja while in Uganda.
His contributions on the pitch were instrumental in Vipers’ Uganda Premier League and Uganda Cup double-winning campaign in 2023.
However, Lawal’s death remains the subject of an ongoing police investigation. Initial reports suggested a motor accident, but further findings revealed that he fell from the third floor of the Voicemall Shopping Arcade in Kampala.
Ugandan authorities are currently reviewing CCTV footage and conducting interviews to determine the circumstances surrounding his untimely demise.
In a show of solidarity, Vipers hosted a Dua ceremony at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende, where teammates, fans, and officials gathered to pray for Lawal’s soul.
His brother, Mansoor Lawal, expressed gratitude to Vipers SC and club president Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa for their unwavering support.
“It is very unfortunate that we lost Abubakar Lawal. He was the breadwinner of our family. Allah gives and Allah takes. We appreciate Vipers and Dr. Mulindwa for ensuring that his body was brought back to Sokoto for a decent burial. We also appeal to the authorities in Uganda to ensure justice is served regarding his death,” he said.
At the burial, Sokoto State Commissioner for Sports, Dr. Mustapha Mohammed, called on Vipers to consider signing another Nigerian player to replace Lawal, emphasizing the strong bond between the club and Nigerian footballers.
“Vipers has played a very beautiful role since the death of Lawal. We have heard from Mr. Kenneth Muwanga and the Nigerian embassy about the great role they have played, and the amicable stay and peaceful co-existence Lawal had with the club. We wish the club president, entire management, players, and the people of Uganda the very best,” Dr. Mohammed said.
Dr. Mulindwa, who personally covered all expenses for transporting Lawal’s body back to Nigeria, has pledged to continue paying the late striker’s salary to his family for the next six months.
