Nigerian politician Cairo Ojougboh dies watching AFCON game

Cairo Ojougboh, a close friend of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, died while watching the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-finals on Wednesday night.

The former House of Representatives member, who represented Delta State’s Ika Federal Constituency, was said to have suffered a heart attack during the Nigeria-South Africa match.

“Cairo Ojougboh, a medical doctor died during the Nigeria vs. South Africa match,” a source quoted by PUNCH said.

“The incident happened when the penalty was awarded against Nigeria. Dr Ojougboh was said to have shouted and slumped due to massive heart attack when SA scored.”

The family had yet to issue a statement announcing his death as of press time.

Mourning his friend, Atiku wrote on X, “The sudden passing of my close friend, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, deeply saddens me. His love for our country was profound.

“Cairo was a shining example of patriotism; his dedication to Nigeria was unwavering, and his departure is a personal loss that leaves a void in my heart. As we mourn, let us remember the passion and zeal for Nigeria that defined his life. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”