The Imo State government has expressed regret over the death of an Imo boxer, Ikechukwu Igboanugo, who died in active service at the just concluded National Sports Festival, NSF, in Asaba Delta State.

Recall that the late Igboanugo was reported dead after losing a fight by knockout to his contender from Anambra State in the 86 kg category.

In a release on Wednesday, in Owerri, by the Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to the Imo State Governor, Oguwike Nwachuku, the Imo State Executive Council, SEC, regretted the unfortunate incident while pledging to bear the cost of the burial rites and support the family.

Wakawaka Sports Extra reports that the SEC noted with delight the performance of the state contingents at the Sports Festival where they emerged as the best in the South East zone.

The statement read in part: “Also, Council noted with delight that Imo contingents to the recently concluded Sports Festival at Asaba, Delta State garnered 45 medals, and that the State emerged the best from all the South East States.

“Council regretted the death of an Imo boxer, Ikechukwu Igboanugo, who died in active service at the festival. “Government accepted to bear the cost of the burial of the contingent to ease the family’s hardship, among other interventions that would be worked out.”