Vipers SC Mourns the Tragic Loss of Midfielder Abubakar Lawaal

The football world was thrown into shock and mourning on Monday, February 24, following the tragic and untimely death of Vipers SC striker Abubakar Lawaal.

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, along Entebbe Road. Initial reports suggested Lawal was involved in a fatal accident on Monday morning, while other sources indicated he may have been assaulted prior to his death.

As investigations continue, Ugandan police have detained Omary Naima, a Tanzanian national, believed to be the last person with Lawaal before the tragic incident. Naima is currently held at Kajjansi Police Station in Wakiso District.

A Football Legacy Cut Short

Lawaal’s passing at just 29 years old, has left an irreplaceable void not only at Vipers SC but also across the Ugandan football fraternity. The striker joined the Venoms on July 18, 2022, from Rwandan side AS Kigali, where he had spent two impactful years.

His arrival at Kitende was met with great excitement, and he quickly established himself as a vital player for the club. Lawaal’s most iconic moment came on March 18, 2023, during Vipers SC’s historic CAF Champions League group stage campaign. In a tightly contested match at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende, Vipers were trailing 1-0 against Moroccan giants Raja Casablanca, having suffered a 5-0 defeat in the first leg.

As the first half drew to a close, Lawaal etched his name in the club’s history books by scoring Vipers’ first-ever goal in the CAF Champions League group stages. His goal not only sent the home crowd into a frenzy but also symbolized a significant milestone for both the club and Ugandan football at large. Fans, players, and club president Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa celebrated the historic moment with uncontainable joy.

A Heart of Gold

Beyond his exploits on the pitch, Lawaal was celebrated for his warm personality and kind heart. His teammates fondly nicknamed him the “Mayor” due to his remarkable ability to connect with everyone around him. Vipers SC paid tribute to him, describing him as a “unique, caring person with a heart of gold.”

“Abubakar Lawaal was a unique person. He had a big heart of gold. He genuinely cared about people and went out of his way to help others. He was incredibly generous and had a beautiful soul. We will miss him so much,” read part of Vipers SC’s heartfelt statement.

Ongoing Investigations

While the football community mourns, the circumstances surrounding Lawal’s death remain under investigation. Police are working tirelessly to establish the full details of what transpired at Voicemall Shopping Arcade that fateful morning.

Lawal’s death is a profound loss not only for Vipers SC but for Ugandan and African football as a whole. His talent, charisma, and unwavering spirit will be deeply missed.

May his soul rest in peace.