Rosa Collins, Madojiemu, Gadzama, others mourn Okorodudu

“Our big brother, icon, and champion, Jerry Okorodudu has come, seen, conquered, done his bit and returned to God as we must all someday day

By Uzor Odigbo

Sequel to the death of Nigeria’s legendary pugilist, Jeremiah Okorodudu, fellow Olympians have continued to react to his passing.

Speaking to TheNiche on Friday, a member of the Nigeria Olympic Association (NOA) and AFN 2nd Vice President, Rosa Collins-Okah, expressed Shock and disbelief at Okorodudu’s passing, adding that efforts should be made in Safeguarding the lives of former Sports personalities through sustainable health insurance scheme after their active days in the service of the nation.

Also speaking, former top female Athlete, Princess Mabel Madojiemu based in Australia, expressed shock that a former sports personality like Jerry Okorodudu died as a result of treatable ailments.

The former quarter-miler, while praying for the repose of the late Nigerian boxer’s soul, demanded legislation to protect the lives of sports personalities and heroes.

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“I didn’t know he is based in Nigeria. My sincere condolences to the family,” she said.

The first Vice President of the AthIetics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Tafida Gadzama, said it has become risky to represent Nigeria in sports following deluged of neglect that usually faces ex-internationals when they have health or financial issues.

Gadzama, who is based in London insisted that Nigeria and kind-hearted individuals should assist Okorodudu’s family in their moments of grief.

“The Nigeria Olympians family has been dealt an indelible blow; so painful as it is regrettable,” he said.

Also, the President of the Nigeria Olympians Association, Olumide Oyedeji (OLY) while in deep shock, has directed a 48hrs mourning and condolences only across all Olympians platforms in honour of our Olympian icon and boxing legend.

The President has also directed his administrative council to scale up the life-after sports projects of the NOA on all fronts as a matter of urgent priority.

The NOA President, Olumide Oyedeji (OLY), in his message, had said thus: “Our big brother, icon, and champion Jerry Okorodudu has come, seen, conquered, done his bit and returned to God as we must all someday day but the onus is now on us while we are still here to make that vow today as Olympians and in honour of Jerry Okorodudu and all our fallen heroes, that the labour of our heroes past shall never be in vain.”