Body of Nigerian Boxer Segun Olanrewaju to Return Next Week after Protracted Repatriation Efforts

Nigerian boxer Segun Olanrewaju’s remains are set to return to Nigeria next week after months of negotiations. His death during a fight raised serious concerns about safety protocols in Ghana’s boxing scene. An investigation revealed flaws in medical supervision and regulatory compliance by the Ghana Boxing Authority, leading to recommendations for accountability and support for Olanrewaju’s family.

The body of Nigerian boxer Segun Olanrewaju is set to return to Nigeria next week, as confirmed by the President of the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC), Rafiu Ladipo. This follows an extended two-month process, involving legal and diplomatic negotiations between Nigeria and Ghana to repatriate his remains. Ladipo expressed optimism, stating, “I can assure you, latest by next week, the body will be brought back. I don’t know what particular day.”

Ladipo emphasized the relentless efforts by Nigerian officials to bring Olanrewaju’s body home with dignity. This situation, which has been ongoing for quite a while, has been harrowing for Olanrewaju’s family and the broader Nigerian boxing community. Olanrewaju, who was affectionately referred to as “Success,” tragically collapsed during a match with Ghanaian boxer Jon Mbanugu on March 29 at the Trust Sports Emporium in Accra and was declared dead at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital.

His untimely demise sparked widespread mourning in Nigeria and ignited concerns regarding safety measures in Ghana’s boxing sector. Investigations have pointed to significant regulatory shortcomings by the Ghana Boxing Authority. The delays in returning Olanrewaju’s remains arose from legal necessities triggered by the circumstances surrounding his death, as Ghana’s Minister for Youth and Sports, Kofi Adams, explained. He mentioned the critical role of the coroner’s report, which was pivotal before any repatriation could proceed.

In May, Adams commented, “The body was not detained for no reason. In the circumstances of his death, the coroner act is invoked… The report delayed the investigations committee work but finally they had it and submitted their report.” Recently cleared by the Ghanaian and Nigerian boxing authorities, the process is finally moving forward.

The investigation into Olanrewaju’s death, led by a seven-member committee chaired by Ambassador Major (retd.) Amarkai Amarteifio, included interviews with 30 individuals and resulted in a detailed 100-page report. It concluded that underlying cardiovascular issues were factors in the tragic event, with Ekow Asmah, a veteran journalist and committee member, stating, “The pathologist was able to diagnose the death… he had a pre-existing condition – an enlarged heart which is common for most athletes.”

Perhaps most alarming were the committee’s findings about the Ghana Boxing Authority’s neglect of essential safety protocols during the fight. It was noted the GBA lacked proper licensing and did not ensure a qualified medical presence at the match. Asmah pointed out, “The GBA doesn’t have a doctor. And when there’s no doctor, there should be no fight.”

Further illustrating the severity of the situation, Asmah remarked that the individual who entered the ring during the incident was not a qualified physician. He described this person as, “clearly an imposter.” The investigation concluded with a recommendation that Ghana take full responsibility for the repatriation of Olanrewaju’s body and cover all related funeral expenses. This underscores the importance of solidarity and mutual respect among African nations. The NBBofC has requested a copy of the investigating committee’s findings to be shared with Nigeria as well.

In summary, the remains of Segun Olanrewaju are expected to arrive in Nigeria next week after extensive legal and diplomatic negotiations. His tragic death has led to critical scrutiny of safety protocols in Ghana’s boxing scene, prompting an investigation that revealed alarming lapses by the Ghana Boxing Authority. The committee’s findings call for Ghana to take responsibility for the repatriation and funeral expenses, highlighting the importance of cooperation among nations in tragic circumstances.

Original Source: punchng.com