The Ghanaian government has confirmed that the body of late Nigerian boxer, Segun Olanrewaju, popularly known as ‘Success’, will soon be transported back to Nigeria following the completion of necessary legal procedures.
According to The PUNCH, Ghana’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Kofi Adams, disclosed that the delay in repatriating the boxer’s remains was due to legal and procedural requirements, including a coroner’s report, which had now been completed.
“The body was not held without reason. In such circumstances, the coroner’s act is invoked. We had to wait for the report, which unfortunately delayed the work of the investigations committee. Now that it has been submitted, both the Nigerian and Ghanaian boxing authorities have the clearance to proceed with the evacuation,” Adams said.
He further assured that the ministry stands ready to support once a repatriation date is finalized.
“My ministry is ready to assist in any way when the two boxing authorities decide on the next steps,” he stated.
Wonder Mandel, administrative assistant to the minister, also confirmed that plans are progressing.
“Efforts are ongoing to fast-track the process and ensure that the boxer’s remains are transported to Nigeria respectfully and without further delay.”
The Secretary-General of the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control, Remi Aboderin, expressed optimism that the process is nearing conclusion.
“We’re relieved that closure is in sight. It’s a tragic incident, and we pray such does not repeat itself. By the end of this week, we believe all the paperwork and necessary steps for his return will be completed,” he said.
Olanrewaju died on March 29 during a professional fight against Ghanaian boxer Jon Mbanugu at the Trust Sports Emporium in Bukom, Accra. He collapsed in the ring and was later confirmed dead at the Korle-Bu Hospital.
A committee set up by the Ghanaian government to investigate his death revealed that Olanrewaju had an undiagnosed heart condition. The committee also criticized the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) for grave lapses in safety protocols.
Veteran boxing journalist and committee member Ekow Asmah revealed that no licensed medical professional was present during the fight. “There was no doctor at the venue. In fact, the man who entered the ring wearing a lab coat was not a qualified doctor — he was an imposter. Olanrewaju also never underwent the mandatory medical exam before the bout,” Asmah said.
The committee’s 100-page report has recommended that the Ghanaian government assume full responsibility for the repatriation of Olanrewaju’s remains and cover all associated burial costs.