Late Boxer Segun “Success” Olanrewaju Set to Be Laid to Rest in Nigeria
Nearly three months after his untimely passing in Ghana, the remains of Nigerian boxer Segun “Success” Olanrewaju are finally returning home. His family, still mourning deeply, has found a small sense of comfort knowing they can now give him a proper burial.
Segun’s mother, overwhelmed with emotion, expressed the heartbreak that still lingers. “I’m not sure I’ll ever truly be okay,” she shared, “but let them bring him home so we can lay him to rest.”
Plans are underway to receive the late boxer’s body. While some relatives will head to the airport, the rest will remain in Ota, Ogun State, where the burial will take place. Depending on the timing of his arrival, the family says the funeral may happen either Tuesday or Wednesday.
“If the body comes early on Tuesday, we’ll bury him that day,” his mother said. “But if it arrives late, we’ll do it on Wednesday.”
Taiwo Azeez, who served as a father figure to Segun, echoed the family’s gratitude for the homecoming. “We’re thankful his body is finally coming back. It’s a painful reality, but at least we can give him peace.”
The Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBBofC) confirmed the repatriation in a letter dated June 10, addressed to the Ghana Boxing Authority. General Secretary Remi Aboderin noted that extensive legal and diplomatic steps were necessary before the process could be completed.
Due to limited cargo options, the journey had to pass through several countries—including Togo and Benin—before reaching Lagos. These logistical delays forced a change in burial plans.
Segun “Success” Olanrewaju collapsed in the ring on March 29 during a match with Ghana’s Jon Mbanugu at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra. He was later confirmed dead at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, leaving the boxing community in shock.
Now, his loved ones can finally begin the long road toward closure, as they prepare to say their final goodbyes.
