Nigerian politician Dr. Cairo Ojougboh reportedly collapsed and died on Wednesday, 7 February, during the Bafana Bafana and Super Eagles Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) semifinal.
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NIGERIAN POLITICIAN DIES ‘DURING BAFANA, SUPER EAGLES AFCON GAME‘
According to Nigerian publication Vanguard News, Ojougboh collapsed as South Africa was awarded a penalty in the late stages of the game at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké.
Before halftime, Nigeria were leading 1-0 when, in the 40th minute, they scored a second goal. However, Victor Osimhen’s goal was ruled out by VAR to award SA a penalty. This was after Percy Tau was brought down in the box prior to Nigeria’s second goal.
The match between the two arch-rivals ended in a 1-1 draw after 90 minutes. The score remained the same after extra time, however, it was Nigeria who came out victorious during the penalty shootouts. The Super Eagles will face-off against Afcon hosts, Ivory Coast, in the final on Saturday.
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PRESIDENT CONFIRMS DEATH
Nigerian president Bola Tinubu confirmed Ojougboh’s passing in a statement.
“It is with a heavy heart that President Bola Tinubu receives the news of the passing of Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, former Executive Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), who died on Wednesday.
“Dr. Ojougboh was a member of the House of Representatives (2003–2007) and a leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State.
“President Tinubu condoles with the Ojougboh family, the government, and the people of Delta State over this tragic loss.
“While praying for the peaceful repose of the departed, President Tinubu comforts his family and urges 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.”
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Ojougboh was also a former Presidential Adviser on National Assembly Matters to former Nigerian president Goodluck Jonathan.
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