The semifinal match between the Nigerian Super Eagles and South Africa’s Bafana Bafana has resulted in the death of at least two Nigerians who died while watching the duel on Wednesday evening.
Oyo Echo reports that a former executive director of NDDC and ex member of the parliament, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh slumped and died when a penalty was awarded against the Nigerian team.
Super Eagles Captain, William Troost-Ekong had scored a penalty at the 67th minute for Nigeria, before the Nelson Mandela’s kinsmen were awarded a spot-kick.
However, the duel ended with a 4-2 penalty shootout victory in favour of Nigeria, sending the Super Eagles to the final of the tournament.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in a condolence message has mourned the passing on of the late APC chieftain.
The president, in a statement by his spokesman Chief Ajuri Ngelale, condoled with the Ojougboh family and the government and people of Delta State over what he called “the tragic loss” of a former member of the House of Representatives (2003-2007) and a leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State.
While praying for the peaceful repose of the departed, President Tinubu comforted his family.
He urged them to find strength and hope in God Almighty, who presides over the affairs of men, as well as in the cherished memories and legacy of the late APC chieftain.
In a related development, a youth Corp member serving in Anambra State; Samuel, died before the last shootout that progressed Nigeria to the final of the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
According to a post made on Facebook by an eye-witness, Samuel died during celebration of Nigeria’s shootout in the semi final match.
“We lost one Nigerian a few minutes ago during our victory celebration over South Africa today at our Sport Viewing Center (SVC) here in Numan.
“The corp member who is serving in numan from Kaduna has fainted before the kick-off of the winning goal.
“He died before they could reach hospital in Numan, may his soul rest in peace,” he said.
Confirming the incident, the NYSC Coordinator in Adamawa state, Mr. Jingi Dennis, in a telephone conversation, said “l have received the news of his death last night, I hope to have more details today.
“According to his colleagues who went with him to watch the match, the late corp member told them that he doesn’t like watching penalty shootout, he then bowed his head and all of a sudden he collapsed.”
“He was confirmed dead at the General Hospital in Numan by the Doctor,” the coordinator said.
Sadly, the deaths coincides with the death of an ace sports journalist and archivist; Kayode Tijani who reportedly died on Wednesday evening at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) after a protracted illness.
He had been ill since Egypt 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
According to his wife, Shade, he will be buried according to Islamic rites on Thursday, 8 February, 2024 at Atan Cemetery in Lagos.
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