US-based Nigerian Athlete, Oluwabukola Pereira Shot Dead In US By Robbers

By Akinwale Kasali

The Athletics Federation of Nigeria, AFN, and the entire nation have been thrown into mourning following the killing of Oluwabukola Pereira, a Nigerian athlete,  during a suspected robbery at a car service centre in Lockland, Ohio, United States of America.

The Lagos-born Sprinter was a cashier at a Car Service Centre where she was killed by the assailant.

Sources disclosed that her assailant made away with $1,500.

Sadly, the 30-Year Old was preparing for her Master of Business Administration, MBA, graduation at the Xavier University few days before her murder.

It was gathered that the incident happened on May 8th; however, the local authorities has continued to investigate the incident and are yet to officially confirm a motive for the shooting.

Don Simpson, a co-worker, said Pereira had attempted to chase the robber when she was shot twice.

“So the guy came in and robbed her, and when he ran, she ran behind him. And when they got to the back, he shot her,” the co-worker said.

The Lagos-born Pereira had competed in a handful of National Championships before moving to the USA.

According to James Lafferty, the man who discovered and sponsored her immigration to the US, Periera, arrived in the country with only $10 and a scholarship.

Lafferty, a former Chief Executive Officer, CEO, of Coca-Cola West Africa, discovered Pereira’s talent while he was based in Lagos.

Pereira had a Bachelor’s degree from Southwest Baptist University, followed by a Master’s in Communication from the University of Texas at El Paso.

Reacting to the demise of Pereira, Dwayne Caldwell said that the late Athlete was devoted to her faith, urging People with Information about the incident to come forward.

Brian Masayesva, a XC and Track Mate of the deceased in 2024 wrote; “Damn, this is a devastating news, she was the kindest soul on the women’s team”.

Linda Cox wrote that justice must be served as she prayed for the repose of her soul.

Sadly, the AFN is yet to issue a statement on her demise, over 11 days after her killing, raising questions over the sensitivity and well being of Nigerian athelets by the Federation.