Immortalise boxing legend, Bamidele, government urged

The Federal Government has been urged to immortalise the late Commonwealth boxing legend, Jonathan Bamidele, whose remains were buried yesterday, at his Ibadan residence.

Bamidele popularly known as Dele Jonathan, died on May 29. He was aged 89 years.

Speaking at the funeral service held at Elewura Grammar School, Ibadan, the President of Boxing Board of Control, Dr. Rafiu Oladipo, said a golden belt would be set up in honour of the late boxing icon.

Oladipo said he would urge the federal and state governments to immortalise him and erect a statue in his honour at the Obafemi Awolowo (popularly called Liberty) Stadium.

He urged the Bamideles not to mourn the death of their father but celebrate him because he lived a good life.

In his sermon, Pastor Olatoye Daniel, of The Coming King Ministry, Abeokuta, Ogun State, described the deceased as a God-fearing man who dedicated larger part of his life to serve God and humanity.

He urged all and sundry to reduce their fear of death; describing it as a necessary end.