Baron Akintunde’s Death Robbed Us Of A Great Supporter – Oyo SWAN

By Seyifunmi Odunuga

IBADAN – The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Oyo State Council have expressed deep sadness at the demise of a boxing promoter, Baron Akintunde Opaleye.

Baron Akintunde Opaleye, who was a former State Chairman of the National Amateur Boxing Association, gave up the ghost in the morning of Sunday, January 17, 2021 at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, where he had been receiving treatments for an undisclosed ailment.

In a condolence message signed by the Association’s Chairman Mr. Niyi Alebiosu and its Secretary Adewale Tijani, Oyo SWAN lamented that the death of Baron Opaleye has robbed sports writers in Oyo State of a big brother, reliable friend and great supporter.

“Late Opaleye was amiable and friendly to every person he came in contact with. He was also kind and helpful to us”, the release stated.

Recall, late Opaleye, who was also an Estate Manager and Land Developer during his lifetime was instrumental to the planning of the Association’s project, Oyo SWAN Estate.

As a sports administrator, the former Chairman of the National Amateur Boxing Association promoted and nurtured many boxers.
Oyo SWAN prayed for the repose of the soul of the departed boxing promoter.

The Association while commisserating with members of the boxing fraternity in the state, including the younger brother of the late boxing promoter who is the Chairman of the State Boxing Association – Hon. Gbenga Opaleye, also prayed to God to give the family of the deceased the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.