Nigerian gymnastics coach Anthony Asuquo found dead under mysterious circumstances

Anthony Asuquo, a Nigerian gymnastics coach and founder of Tony International Gymnastics (TIG) Club, has been found dead under mysterious circumstances, raising concerns about possible alleged  fraud.

According to a Facebook post by his childhood friend, Olawale Samuel Akindairo, Asuquo passed away shortly after alerting friends that N11 million had allegedly been withdrawn from his bank account.

Akindairo urged the Nigerian Senate to investigate the circumstances surrounding his friend’s death and appealed to former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo to intervene, citing a personal friendship with Asuquo.

“Professor Yemi Osinbajo, your good friend Anthony Asuquo died in mysterious circumstances. A man who was hale and hearty died a few hours after notifying his friends that his wife withdrew his #11M,” Akindairo wrote.

He added: “Anthony Asuquo was a lad who struggled to create a name for himself, his family, and the entire children of Army Cantonment Barracks, Lagos, Nigeria. He rose from grass to grace, and I am using this opportunity to call attention to his death. The Nigerian Senate should take note of the above. Adieu Coach Anthony!”

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Asuquo was widely recognized for his contributions to Nigerian gymnastics. In 2024, he led athletes from TIG Club to represent Nigeria at the Women’s Artistic Gymnastics event in Anadia, Portugal, where the team returned with gold, silver, and bronze medals, elevating Nigeria’s standing in the sport.

Experts say Asuquo’s sudden death highlights broader issues around financial security and the protection of public figures in Nigeria.

Sports analyst Chinedu Eze noted, “The loss of a figure like Anthony Asuquo is tragic not only for gymnastics but for sports development in Nigeria. If the financial allegations are connected to his death, it underscores the urgent need for stronger safeguards for athletes and coaches.”

The police and relevant authorities are yet to release an official statement on the circumstances surrounding Asuquo’s death. Meanwhile, colleagues, friends, and the gymnastics community are calling for an immediate investigation to clarify the events leading up to his passing.