Over the weekend, supporters of Vipers Sports Club gathered at St. Mary’s Stadium in Kitende to pay tribute to their late forward, Abubakar Lawal, who tragically passed away on February 24, 2025.
The club held a special “dua” prayer session, uniting teammates, officials, fans, and members of Uganda’s football community in remembrance of the Nigerian footballer.
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During the memorial, Vipers SC President Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa praised Lawal’s professionalism and character, describing him as the epitome of a dedicated footballer.
“Lawal was the true definition of a professional player. You didn’t need to look it up in a dictionary—we had him here,” he stated. He also highlighted Lawal’s discipline, humility, kindness, and integrity, noting his profound influence on and off the field.
Expressing gratitude for the club’s unwavering support, Lawal’s brother, Mansoor, thanked Dr. Mulindwa and Vipers SC for their assistance in repatriating the late player’s body to Nigeria. He acknowledged the emotional and logistical help provided by the club during this difficult period.
Vipers SC captain Milton Karisa reflected on the loss of his teammate, describing Lawal as “a great person” and recognizing the deep impact of his passing on the squad. He extended condolences to Lawal’s family in Nigeria, reaffirming the team’s solidarity with them.
As a show of support, Vipers SC announced that the club would provide Lawal’s family with six months’ salary. The late footballer, who was the primary provider for his nine brothers and two daughters, leaves behind a grieving family, and this financial gesture aims to offer them some relief.
Lawal joined Vipers SC in 2022 and was instrumental in the club’s historic domestic double in the 2022/23 season, helping them secure both the Ugandan Premier League title and the Uganda Cup. His talent, leadership, and passion cemented his status as one of the most outstanding foreign players in Ugandan football history.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding Lawal’s death are ongoing. While initial reports suggested he was involved in a motorbike accident, Ugandan police later clarified that he fell from the third floor of the Voicemall Shopping Arcade in Bwebajja.
The Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN) has urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation, seeking clarity on the incident.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has also intensified efforts to determine the true cause of Lawal’s death, expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy and emphasizing the need for transparency in the investigation.
The memorial served as a powerful tribute to Lawal’s contributions to Vipers SC and the wider football community. His legacy as a skilled and dedicated professional will continue to inspire future generations in the sport.
