By Ogochukwu Isioma
Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu, has mourned the passing of Nigerian boxing legend, Jeremiah Okorodudu.
The deceased fondly called ‘Jerry Boy’, was a renowned boxer and an olympian who represented Nigeria at the 1984 Los Angeles Games in USA.
In his condolence message to the bereaved family through the deceased daughter and personally signed by him, the Deputy Governor said, “It is with a deep sense of loss that l received the sad news of the passing of your father at the age of 64 years.”
Shaibu noted that the demise of the deceased boxer was a great loss to his family, Nigeria and sports community. He recounted his exploits and prominence at both national and international levels, during the active years of his boxing career.
“His demise is a huge loss to family members and indeed, the Nigerian sports family, particularly the boxing community.
“Permit me to place on record that your father’s exploits as a renowned boxer of international repute placed Nigeria on the world map during his active years.
“He won medals for the then Bendel State, now Edo and Delta States.
“I recall that ‘Jerry Boy’ as he was fondly called by boxing fans and admirers, represented Nigeria at the 1982 Commonwealth Games in Brisbane – where he won a bronze medal.
“He was also a member of the Nigerian contingent to the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games and featured in the boxing event and gave a good account of himself”.
The Deputy Governor counseled the bereaved family to sustain the legacies of Olympian Okorodudu and keep his memories alive.
“No doubt, his demise has created a vacuum in the family. However, let me admonish the loved ones he left behind to imbibe his good virtues as a memorial for his eventful life”
“May his gentle soul rest peacefully in the bosom of Almighty God.
“Please, accept my condolences”, Shaibu added.
