The sudden death of Nigerian gymnastics coach and sports administrator Anthony Asuquo has triggered growing public concern, with friends and associates demanding a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his passing.
Anthony Asuquo, the founder of Tony International Gymnastics Club, widely known as TIG Club, was described by close contacts as healthy and active shortly before his death. This has fuelled speculation and intensified calls for clarity from authorities.
One of his childhood friends, Olawale Samuel Akindairo, raised an alarm in a Facebook post, claiming that Asuquo died just hours after telling friends that his wife had withdrawn ₦11 million from his bank account. Akindairo argued that the timing of these events warrants an urgent and comprehensive inquiry.
“The sudden death needs to be investigated,” he wrote, urging law enforcement and relevant institutions to take the matter seriously.
In the same post, Akindairo appealed to the Nigerian Senate to step in and called on former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, citing his personal connection to the late coach.
“Professor Yemi Osinbajo, your good friend Anthony Asuquo died under mysterious circumstances. A man who was hale and hearty passed on a few hours after telling his friends that his wife withdrew his ₦11 million,” he stated.
Reflecting on Asuquo’s life and achievements, Akindairo described him as a self-made man who worked tirelessly to build a successful career while uplifting young athletes in his community.
“Anthony Asuquo rose from grass to grace. He worked hard to build a name for himself, his family, and the children of Army Cantonment Barracks, Lagos,” he added.
He concluded with a direct call to lawmakers: “The Nigerian Senate should take note of this. Adieu, Coach Anthony.”
Beyond the controversy surrounding his death, Asuquo is remembered for his impact on gymnastics in Nigeria.
In 2024, he led athletes from his TIG Club to represent the country at the Women’s Artistic Gymnastics event in Anadia, Portugal, where the team secured gold, silver and bronze medals.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Nigeria Sports Commission, led by Abdullahi Dikko, nor the Nigerian Gymnastics Federation has issued an official statement.
