Vipers SC president Mulindwa pays tribute to Late Abubakar Lawal

Vipers SC President, Dr. Lawrence Mulindwa, has paid tribute to the late Abubakar Lawal, describing him as a true professional whose dedication and contributions to the club were invaluable.

Lawal, a former Vipers SC player, tragically fell from the third floor of Voicemall Shopping Arcade in Bwebajja on the morning of February 24, 2025, and was pronounced dead upon arrival at Entebbe Hospital.

His untimely death has left a deep void at the club, with teammates, officials, and the wider football community mourning his loss. Investigations into the circumstances surrounding his death are ongoing.

Speaking at the Dua prayers held in Lawal’s honor on Thursday evening at St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende, Mulindwa praised the late player for his discipline and unwavering commitment to the club.

"Last year, when his contract had just expired, he came to me and said he had offers elsewhere. But because we hadn’t won any silverware, he told me, 'I can’t leave. Let me stay and help deliver a trophy first.' That was Lawal—a disciplined and dedicated player," Mulindwa recalled.

Mulindwa’s remarks underscored Lawal’s loyalty and passion for Vipers SC, making his sudden passing even more devastating for the club and its supporters.

The Vipers SC president also urged the Uganda Police and other security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the tragic incident. Lawal’s body was scheduled to be repatriated to his hometown in Sokoto, Nigeria, on Sunday, pending the completion of necessary paperwork.

Mulindwa personally covered costs exceeding sh200 million to ensure Lawal’s body was repatriated with dignity. This included chartering a plane to transport the body from Lagos to Sokoto, a journey of approximately 984 kilometers. Additionally, Mulindwa pledged to support Lawal’s family for the next six months by providing them with financial assistance equivalent to Lawal’s salary at Vipers.

Club captain Milton Karisa expressed the team’s grief, acknowledging the significant void left by Lawal’s passing.

"He has left a big gap for us, and we will miss him dearly. We shared many good moments with him, and we pray for God to grant him eternal peace," Karisa said.

The Dua prayers were attended by various dignitaries from the football community, including representatives from FUFA and other clubs, who came together to honor Lawal’s memory.