The victory recorded by the Super Eagles of Nigeria against Bafana Bafana of South Africa in the semi-final football match in the ongoing AFCON 2023, has come with its calamity as four eminent Nigerians died due to the tension the match generated.
According to the information gathered, a Nigerian Businessman and the CEO of Groupe of Auto Promotion, Chief Osondu Nwoye collapsed after a goal was cancelled for Nigeria and passed on while watching the match.
Also, the Deputy Bursar of the Kwara State University (KWASU), Alhaji Ayuba Abdullahi died while watching the game.
Also kicked the buckets while the match was ongoing was the former Nigerian Lawmaker, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh.
Ojougboh, a medical doctor, was a former member of the House of Representatives representing the Ika Federal Constituency of Delta State.
A source said, “The incident happened when the penalty was awarded against Nigeria. Dr Ojougboh was said to have shouted and slumped due to a massive heart attack when SA scored.”
Also, a Nigerian graduate and member of the National Youth Service Corps serving in Adamawa identified as Samuel died just before the final kick which secured Nigeria’s win in the match.
A witness recounted the event on a social media post saying, “We lost one Nigerian during our victory celebration over South Africa at our sports viewing centre here in Numan. The corps member who is serving in Numan from Kaduna State fainted before the kick of the winning goal. He died before they could reach the hospital in Numan. May his soul rest in peace.”
The NYSC Coordinator in Adamawa State, Jingi Dennis said the corps member was confirmed dead at the General Hospital in Numan pointing out, “I received the news of his death last night. I hope to have more details today.”
Some Nigerians have warned people with high blood pressure to desist from watching life football matches.
Nungua Burnaboy stated, “One of the fastest ways for someone with High Blood Pressure to die is to watch intense matches. It’s about time we go for hospital checkups routinely.”
