February 09, (THEWILL) – The Super Eagles, Nigeria’s senior men’s national football team, are mourning the shocking deaths of passionate supporters who passed away while watching their thrilling AFCON 2024 semi-final against South Africa on Wednesday evening.
No fewer than five fans tragically died from the tension and excitement during the match. Among the deceased are Cairo Ojougboh, a former presidential advisor, Mikail Osundiji, businessman Chief Osondu, university bursar Alhaji Ayuba Abdullahi and National Youth Corps member Peter Yunana.
Ojougboh was a former member of the House of Representatives representing the Ika Federal Constituency of Delta State and reportedly died while watching the semi-final match. Osundiji was a sales representative working with Nestle Plc and reportedly slumped and died while watching the match in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.
Chief Nwoye was an Anambra State-born businessman and a resident of Abidjan. He reportedly collapsed inside the stadium and later died in a hospital. Alhaji Abdullahi was the Deputy Bursar of Kwara State University, Malete. He also slumped and died following a heavy shock after the referee nullified Nigeria’s second goal against South Africa. The story was similar to Yunana’s case as the Youth Corps member serving in Adamawa State slumped during the match and was never revived.
Team captain Ahmed Musa said the losses should now inspire the squad to emerge victorious in Sunday’s final clash with Ivory Coast. In an emotional video, Musa led his teammates in a minute’s silence for the fans. Player Chidozie Awaziem then said a prayer for the grieving families.
The Super Eagles also paid online tribute to the supporters who died in a “cruel twist of fate” while immersed in the football game they loved. The team has pledged to lift the AFCON trophy on behalf of these passionate, unity-inspiring followers.
As they prepare for the final, the shocking events serve as a reminder of football’s immense cultural power to enthral fans – albeit with heartbreaking consequences in this case. The spectators who sadly passed away will be remembered for their infectious devotion to the Super Eagles’ AFCON 2024 quest. Sunday’s final promises to be an intensely emotional affair.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
