Albert Okumagba: Nigeria Squash Fraternity Mourns Passing Of ‘The Guru’ (Exclusive)

Nigerian squash fraternity is mourning the death of stockbroker, capital market operator and investment expert, Albert Okumagba.

AllNews understands that Okumagba, a staunch and pionner member of O Trafford Squash Club, Ikoyi, Lagos, died last Thursday in Abuja, Nigeria's capital city, following a reported heart attack.

"It is really sad and I have lost a friend and the squash community has lost a true Squash Enthusiast and Stakeholder," Boye Oyerinde, the President of the Nigeria Squash Federation (NSF) told AllNews in an exclusive chat.

"We thank God for his life and pray that our Good Lord grant those he left behind the fortitude to bear the loss.

"He will be greatly missed."

'Late Okumagba is a great supporter of the noble game of squash'

"We call him 'The Guru', because he plays and always want to win with a lot of swagger which create a lot of fun while playing," Seun Peters, Secretary, Squash Coaches Association said to AllNews.

"Okumagba is a very passionate and loving squasher to the core, who is ready to sponsor any player from any state.

"A very enthusiastic squash player, he play squash first for its great fun, and next to win by all means allowable.

"We've lost a proponent of great fun-filled squash.

"When he knows you for the first time, so far you play well and conduct yourself in a sportsman-like manner, then you have won his heart."

'Okumagba's demise is a big shock'

"It was a big shock for me, and the squash community will miss him," Wasiu Bello, an erstwhile professional squash player and current NLNG squash coach said to AllNews.

"He is a lively man with a good heart, but God has called him - too soon though."

Okumagba is an ally of a former governor of Delta State, James Ibori.

The present governor, Ifeanyi Okowa expressed deep shock over his exit.

In a statement last Friday by his Chief Press Secretary, Olisa Ifeajika, Okowa said that the passing of Okumagba was a big blow to the finance industry where he played key roles in intermediation, especially through financing of key investments through the stock exchange.

The deceased, who passed away at 56, is a former Managing Director of BGL Securities Plc.

He hailed from Okere-Urhobo, in Warri, Delta State.

He is survived by his wife and three children.

AllNews understands that burial arrangements will be announced soon by his family.