Was Segun Olanrewaju’s death preventable? Ghana investigates

DDM News

The Ghanaian government has launched an investigation into the sudden death of Nigerian boxer Segun Olanrewaju during a professional match.

Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, confirmed the establishment of a committee to probe the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

According to Diaspora digital media (DDM) reports Olanrewaju collapsed in the third round of his bout against Ghanaian fighter Jon Mbanugu at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra.

The fight took place on March 29 during Fight Night 15 of the Ghana Professional Boxing League.

Medical personnel rushed him to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, where doctors later pronounced him dead after unsuccessful revival attempts.

Olanrewaju was a former West African and Nigerian national light-heavyweight champion with a professional record of 24 fights.

He secured 13 victories, suffered eight defeats, and recorded three draws throughout his boxing career.

His participation in the Ghana Professional Boxing League was part of his efforts to further his career and reputation.

The unexpected nature of his death has raised concerns about the medical preparedness of boxing events in Ghana.

Remi Aboderin, Secretary-General of the Nigerian Boxing Board of Control (NBB of C), has accused the Ghana Boxing Authority of negligence.

He alleged that the organizers failed to adhere to proper boxing regulations, particularly regarding the availability of emergency medical personnel.

Aboderin emphasized that medical staff should always be positioned ringside to provide immediate assistance to injured fighters.

Speaking on Ghanaian radio station Sporty FM, Kofi Adams reassured the public of a thorough and impartial investigation.

He stated that the committee would determine whether all necessary safety protocols were observed during the fight.

Adams highlighted the need to verify if paramedics and emergency medical personnel were available and adequately prepared for emergencies.

He assured that no detail would be concealed and pledged full transparency in the investigative process.

The minister called on both Nigerian and Ghanaian boxing authorities to cooperate fully with the investigative panel.

Olanrewaju’s death has ignited discussions about the safety standards of professional boxing events across Africa.

Many stakeholders are urging stricter enforcement of regulations to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Boxing remains a high-risk sport, but adequate medical preparedness can significantly reduce fatalities and life-threatening injuries.

Experts stress the importance of having ambulances, paramedics, and specialized doctors at ringside during every professional bout.

Sports analysts believe that a lack of immediate medical intervention may have contributed to the unfortunate outcome.

Advocates are now calling for international boxing bodies to intervene and ensure that all safety measures are strictly followed.

Olanrewaju’s death serves as a tragic reminder of the dangers associated with boxing and other combat sports.

His family, friends, and fans are mourning his loss while demanding justice and accountability from the boxing authorities.

The boxing community awaits the investigative panel’s findings, hoping for improved safety regulations in the sport.

As investigations proceed, stakeholders remain committed to ensuring that professional boxing events prioritize fighter safety above all else.

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