By A devastating rainstorm in Ilorin, Kwara State, claimed the life of renowned taekwondo champion and coach, Musa Ismail, on Monday evening.
The tragic incident occurred at the Lower Niger River Basin Authority (LNRBDA) premises where Ismail regularly trained. Eyewitnesses said a section of the newly renovated Badminton Court collapsed during the storm and fatally struck the athlete.
The storm, which raged between 5:30 and 6:00 p.m., also caused extensive damage to the sporting facility. Ismail, known not only for his taekwondo achievements but also as a beloved badminton coach, was reportedly with friends when the structure gave way.
Sources told LEADERSHIP that the collapsed court has since been sealed, with the damaged portion clearly visible from the outside. Efforts to get an official response from the LNRBDA authorities were unsuccessful as of press time.
A staff member of the Authority, who chose to remain anonymous, confirmed the fatal accident. “It’s truly a tragic loss. It happened during the heavy downpour on Monday, and it’s shaken everyone here,” the source said.
Coach Musa Ismail had recently been celebrated for winning the 2025 MKA Taekwondo Championship in Ede, Osun State. His trainees and colleagues described him as a kind, passionate, and inspiring figure in both taekwondo and badminton communities.
