The body of Nigerian boxer Segun Olanrewaju arrived in Lagos on Tuesday evening, nearly three months after he died during a boxing match in Ghana.
Olanrewaju, also known in the boxing world as “Success,” passed away on March 29 after collapsing in the ring during a fight with Ghanaian boxer Jon Mbanugu.
The incident happened at the Trust Sports Emporium Boxing Arena in Accra.
He was confirmed dead at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital.
Family members, supporters, and boxing officials gathered at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport to receive his remains.
The mood was sorrowful as his wife, Adebusola, and his sisters cried at the sight of his coffin.
His body was supposed to arrive at 4:00 p.m., but due to delays in cargo handling, the casket was not released until 7:15 p.m.
Representatives from the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC) and the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) were present at the airport, along with others who came to mourn and show support.
Abraham Boakye, who led the Ghanaian delegation, joined other sympathisers at the event.
He also serves as President of the Ghana National Supporters Union.
GBA board member Gideon Appiah explained that the delay in returning the boxer’s body was due to an investigation set up by Ghana’s Sports Ministry.
The investigation involved a seven-member panel, which had to complete its work before the body could be sent back to Nigeria. He also presented $3,000 to the family as support.
NBBofC President Dr Rafiu Ladipo, who received the donation on behalf of the family, thanked everyone involved in making the return possible.
Lawrence Nwose, who represented the late boxer’s wife, also appreciated the cooperation between the boxing bodies of both countries.
He was 36 years old.
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