The remains of Nigerian boxer Gabriel “Success” Olanrewaju were finally returned to his grieving family in Lagos, Nigeria, after a protracted three-month wait following his untimely death in a boxing match in Accra, Ghana. The arrival of his coffin at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport was met with heart-wrenching scenes of grief as his wife, Adebusola, and his sisters wept inconsolably, their sorrow amplified by the agonizing delay in the release of his body from the cargo area. The somber occasion was witnessed by a crowd of supporters, fellow boxers, promoters, and representatives from both the Nigerian and Ghanaian boxing authorities, underscoring the impact of Olanrewaju’s tragic passing on the boxing community.
The Ghanaian delegation, led by Abraham Boakye, President of the Ghana National Supporters Union and Vice President of the Africa Football and Other Sports Union, demonstrated a poignant show of solidarity with the bereaved family. Boakye’s presence and words of condolence emphasized the shared sense of loss felt by the Ghanaian sporting community, acknowledging Olanrewaju’s unfortunate demise while participating in a sporting event on their soil. This gesture of unity transcended national boundaries, highlighting the human connection that binds individuals even in times of grief and loss.
The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA), represented by board member Gideon Appiah, not only offered condolences but also presented a financial donation of three thousand US dollars to the family. Appiah explained that the delay in repatriating Olanrewaju’s body was due to an investigative process initiated by the Ghanaian Sports Ministry following the incident. While expressing regret for the prolonged wait, he clarified that the GBA had paused its own repatriation efforts to allow the government-appointed committee to complete its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the boxer’s death. The GBA’s cooperation with the official inquiry reflects a commitment to transparency and accountability in addressing the tragic event.
Dr. Rafiu Ladipo, President of the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC) and the Africa Football and Other Sports Union, received the donation on behalf of the family. The presence of representatives from both national boxing boards underscored the collaborative effort between the two countries in navigating the sensitive and complex process of repatriating the deceased boxer. Lawrence Nwose, speaking for Olanrewaju’s wife, expressed gratitude for the joint efforts of the NBBofC and GBA in facilitating the return of her husband’s remains, emphasizing the importance of unity and cooperation in beginning the healing process.
The tragic incident unfolded on March 29th during a boxing match between Olanrewaju and Ghanaian boxer Jon Mbanugu at the Trust Sports Emporium Boxing Arena in Accra. Olanrewaju collapsed in the ring and was subsequently pronounced dead at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. The ensuing investigation, led by a seven-member government-appointed committee, sought to determine the cause of death and shed light on the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The committee’s findings, based on pathological examinations, revealed pre-existing cardiovascular issues, specifically an enlarged heart, as a contributing factor to Olanrewaju’s death. While an enlarged heart is a relatively common condition among athletes, the precise trigger that led to his collapse in the ring remained undetermined. The conclusion of the investigation, while offering some medical explanation, ultimately provided little solace to a family longing to lay their loved one to rest. The arrival of his remains marked the end of a painful period of uncertainty and allowed the family to begin the arduous process of grieving and healing. The collaborative efforts between the Nigerian and Ghanaian boxing authorities, the official investigation, and the eventual repatriation of Olanrewaju’s body all contributed to bringing closure to this tragic chapter. While the grief remains profound, the family can now begin to mourn and remember their loved one with the dignity and respect he deserved. The boxing community, both in Nigeria and Ghana, shares in their sorrow and offers continued support as they navigate the difficult journey ahead.
