The Super Eagles of Nigeria are grieving the loss of four dedicated fans who tragically passed away while watching their gripping semifinal clash against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana in the ongoing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in Cote d’Ivoire.
Despite the somber atmosphere, the team is resolute in their determination to clinch the continental trophy in memory of the deceased and for the pride of Nigeria.
NN News Media has reported that Ibrahim Gusau, president of the NFF, attributed the Super Eagles’ imminent victory in the AFCON to Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” a statement that has stirred controversy and sparked widespread rejection among Nigerians on social media platforms.
During a solemn gathering led by team captain Ahmed Musa, the Super Eagles players and officials paid their respects to the departed fans on Thursday. Among the mourned individuals are Chief Cairo Ojougboh, a prominent APC chieftain in Delta State and former federal lawmaker, who collapsed and passed away while watching the intense semifinal showdown. Additionally, Ayuba Abdullahi, the deputy bursar of Kwara State University, a Corps member serving in Adamawa State named Samuel, and a Nigerian businessman based in Cote d’Ivoire also tragically lost their lives under similar circumstances.
Musa expressed the team’s helplessness in the face of such tragedies, stating that all they could do was offer prayers for the families of the deceased and pledge to honor their memories by securing victory in the AFCON final on Sunday.
As a mark of respect, a minute of silence was observed in memory of the departed fans, followed by a heartfelt prayer led by Super Eagles member Chidozie Collins Awaziem for the repose of their souls.
“Yesterday (Wednesday), we lost four Nigerians because of the game yesterday. We will observe a minute silence, and after that Awaziem will lead us in prayers, we will pray for their families because there is nothing we can do and Insha Allahu on Sunday, we will lift that trophy for them and our country,” declared Ahmed Musa, reflecting the team’s determination to triumph in honor of their fallen supporters.
