In a tragic turn of events, former Nigerian boxer, Jeremiah Okorodudu, passed away on Wednesday after a distressing struggle for life at a hospital in Lawanson, Lagos. His demise occurred just hours before he was scheduled to undergo a leg amputation surgery.

Family sources revealed to Sports Vanguard that Okorodudu, who represented Nigeria at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, had suffered a partial stroke about two years ago. While managing this condition, his health deteriorated further when he was diagnosed with diabetes last year.

"He was not only dealing with the aftermath of the partial stroke but also with diabetes," disclosed a family source, who further added that his foot had developed cancerous sores. Initially, the plan was to amputate his foot last Saturday, but due to insufficient funds, the surgery had to be rescheduled for Thursday.

Shockingly, after Okorodudu's death, the hospital authorities refused to release his body until the outstanding balance of N600,000 was settled. However, the latest information indicates that the hospital has eventually relented and released the body to Okorodudu's daughter, who has taken it to an undisclosed morgue in Satellite Town, Lagos.

The Nigerian boxing community has been deeply saddened by Jerry's (as he was fondly known) passing. Dr. Rauf Oladipo, President of the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control (NBB of C), expressed his sorrow upon hearing the news, mentioning that the board had no knowledge of Okorodudu's health condition until late last week when it was reported on the radio that he was critically ill.

"We had not been contacted by the family, and I only learned about Jerry's illness through the radio while on my way to Ibadan. I promised that when I returned, the board would convene to discuss his case, only to be informed last night that he had passed away," said Oladipo.

He emphasized that the board would still convene to explore ways to alleviate the financial burden on the family. Oladipo highlighted Okorodudu's significance as a celebrated boxer who drew crowds whenever he competed, expressing that it was disheartening that such a prominent figure could fall ill without the public's knowledge.

Remi Aboderin, Secretary General of the NBB of C and President of the West African Boxing Union, also expressed shock and conveyed his condolences. "It is unfortunate that he met such a fate, and I am at a loss for words. May his soul rest in peace," said Aboderin.

Obisia Nwakpa, one of Nigeria's most successful boxers, was devastated when contacted for comment. He struggled to find words to express his feelings, still reeling from the shock of Okorodudu's passing. "I was stunned when I heard about Okorodudu's death. It's still difficult for me to comment on it. He was an exceptional boxer, and I watched him in the ring. He was truly remarkable," said Nwakpa.

Obisia's ability to elaborate further was hampered by his overwhelming shock, rendering him speechless in the face of the tragic news.

Very sad news. May his soul rest in peace amen. He was a great boxer

May his gentle soul RiP. Nigeria doesn't know how to care for its own heroes

Chai..

RIP.

He should give those nurses and doctors uppercut and round blow.

Life!
Rest In piece Sir, u have made ur mark.

My brothers do point to me this man back then arounds 90s, with opening song of NTA sport, his fighting action programmed on the third scene. Though I was very young then, but his name I did not forget.

Nigeria and negligence of heroes...
This country is every shade of hopelessness. And you wonder why some refused to represent the country? Its cos Nigeria under value anything.
Rest on hero

Remembered him like yesterday.

He and Peter Konyegwachie that year.

Also remembered his fight with Joe lasisi , it was the height of boxing glory in Nigeria.

Rest on legend, the country failed you like several heroes and heroines before you.

matify83:
Remembered him like yesterday.

He and Peter Konyegwachie that year.

Also remembered his fight with Joe lasisi , it was the height of boxing glory in Nigeria.

Rest on legend, the country failed you like several heroes and heroines before you.

the only people this country hasn't failed are those robbing her blind. What is happening to Nigeria can only be called rape!

STEWpid:
Chai..

RIP.

He should give those nurses and doctors uppercut and round blow.

May his ghost come back to haunt those negligent doctors