The Minister for Youth, Sports and Recreation has officially inaugurated a high-powered Committee of Enquiry to investigate the tragic death of Nigerian boxer, Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, who collapsed and later died following a bout at the Bukom Boxing Arena on March 29, 2025.

The seven-member committee is chaired by Ambassador Major (Rtd) Amarkai Amarteifio, a well-respected figure in Ghana’s sports fraternity.

Other members include Peter Zwennes,  Mr. Ekow Asmah, Samuel Bartels,  Mr. Eddie Pappoe, Dr. Martin Engmann, and Mrs. Juliana Addo-Yobo, who serves as the committee’s secretary and representative of the Ministry of Sports and Recreation (MOSR).

The committee has been tasked with investigating the circumstances surrounding the boxer’s death, with specific terms of reference guiding their work.

Among the key objectives are:

To determine the exact circumstances that led to the death of Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju during the match.

To assess whether the organizers and promoters of the boxing event adhered to international safety standards.

To evaluate the role of Nigeria’s boxing licensing authorities in permitting the late boxer to participate in an international bout in Accra, considering his qualifications and experience.

To examine the conduct of all officials involved, both individually and collectively, and recommend sanctions where necessary.

To propose necessary changes in technical and medical procedures to enhance safety in the sport.

To make further recommendations that would safeguard participants, promote safety, and protect the integrity and image of boxing in Ghana and beyond.

Speaking at the inauguration, the Minister emphasized the importance of transparency and thoroughness in the committee's work, noting that the tragic incident had drawn significant public attention and concern from the international boxing community.

The committee is expected to submit its findings and recommendations in due course.

The Ministry assures the public of its commitment to implementing reforms aimed at improving the safety and governance of boxing events in the country.

The late Olanrewaju’s death has sparked conversations around athlete welfare, event organization, and the responsibilities of both local and international boxing authorities.