The Ministry of Sports and Recreation has inaugurated a seven-member Committee of Enquiry to investigate the tragic death of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, who collapsed during a bout at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra on March 29, 2025, and was later pronounced dead at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital.

Speaking at the inauguration on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, in Accra, the Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Iddie Adams, described the incident as one that "cannot just be swept under the carpet."

He mentioned the government's commitment to uncovering the full truth behind the death and using it as a learning opportunity to improve safety in the sport. 

He explained that the committee which has 21-days to submit its report would not only examine the immediate circumstances surrounding the tragedy but also address broader regulatory and medical issues in Ghana's boxing sector and its international engagements.

The Minister explained that the composition of the committee was deliberate and reflected a deep understanding of the sport and its risks.

He noted that all members had demonstrated a willingness to serve and contribute their expertise without hesitation. Among them is Major (Retired) Amarkai Amarteifio, a former Minister for Sports and retired military officer, who will serve as chairman. 

Adams praised him as “a person who understands the art of self-defence” and recalled his significant contributions to the development of boxing in Ghana, including his role in nurturing talents like D.K. Poison and Azumah Nelson through the Kotoku Academy.

The other members of the committee include prominent lawyer and former Ghana Boxing Authority president Peter Zwennes, respected journalist and boxing historian Ekow Asmah, legal practitioners Samuel Bartels and Juliana Addo-Yobo, veteran boxing official Eddie Pappoe, and sports medicine expert, Dr. Martin Engmann.

The Minister stated that the committee also has an observer slot for a representative of the Nigerian High Commission in Ghana, a decision aimed at fostering trust and transparency between both nations.

The committee has been tasked with determining the precise circumstances that led to Olanrewaju’s death, including whether adequate medical and safety precautions were in place in accordance with international standards. 

It will also examine whether Nigerian boxing authorities acted with due diligence in licensing the boxer for an international match, and assess the conduct of officials involved, recommending sanctions where necessary. 

Furthermore, the committee is to propose changes to technical and medical protocols that would enhance safety in boxing, while considering any additional matters that could help safeguard the integrity of the sport and the welfare of its participants.

Addressing the media, Adams acknowledged the professionalism of journalists covering the case and encouraged continued responsible reporting, especially given the international attention the incident has drawn. 

He confirmed that Ghanaian authorities had engaged with the Nigerian High Commissioner and Nigeria’s boxing regulators to ensure mutual respect and transparency, stating, “We have treated them in a way that we would expect to be treated if it was our national that was involved or lost his or her life.”

Ambassador Amarteifio, in his acceptance remarks, highlighted the weight of the assignment, stressing its relevance not only to Ghana but also to the broader African and global sports community.

“The work that we have been assigned is very, very important in more ways than one,” he said. “It is important as far as the image of Africa and African sports is concerned. It is important as far as the safety and the security of our young people who participate in sports are concerned.”

He assured the public that the committee would work swiftly and diligently, stating that while they have been given 21 days to complete their work, they intend to conclude even earlier, depending on the level of cooperation from stakeholders. 

He also stated the importance of the media’s role, urging journalists to report accurately due to the international ramifications of the investigation. 

“This is not an exclusive domestic issue,” he warned. “This is a matter with important international implications… the image of the sport is very important. So is the life of the participants, and so is the reputation of Africa.”

Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, a former national and West African light heavyweight champion, entered the bout with a record of 23 fights, 13 wins, and 8 defeats. He collapsed in the third round of his match against Ghanaian boxer Jon Mbanugu. Though he received immediate medical attention at the arena and was rushed to hospital, he was pronounced dead 30 minutes after arrival.