A former member of the House of Representatives, Dr Cairo Ojougboh, reportedly passed away during the match between Nigeria and South Africa on Wednesday night.
According to reports, the chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) slumped when a penalty was awarded against Nigeria in the 88th minute of the game.
Ojougboh was said to have first shouted and before he collapsed to the ground due to a massive heart attack.
“As soon as a penalty kick was awarded against Nigeria during the AFCON match with South Africa on Wednesday’s semi-final clash in Bouake, Ivory Coast, Dr. Ojougboh was reported to have screamed, and then collapsed,” a source said on Thursday.
“He was said to be watching the live match yesterday. When a penalty was awarded against Nigeria, ,” a source said.
Nigeria defeated South Africa 4-2 on penalties at the Stade de la Paix in Bouake, to secure a spot in the finals of the Africa Cup of Nations.
Meanwhile, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mourned Dr Cairo Ojougboh, following the tragic news of his death
In a statement by his spokesman Chief Ajuri Ngelale, the president said he received the news of the passing of the former Executive Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), with a heavy heart.
Tinubu condoled with the Ojougboh family and the government and people of Delta State over what he called “the tragic loss”. 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.
