Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-02-09 11:30:33
The Super Eagles paid their respects to the lives lost during Nigeria’s semi-final match against South Africa by observing a minute of silence. The match, which took place on Wednesday night, tragically resulted in the deaths of at least four individuals, including prominent figures such as Dr. Cairo Ojougboh of the ruling All Progressives Congress, Deputy Bursar Ayuba Abdullahi, and a corps member identified as Samuel. Additionally, Anambra-born businessman Osondu Nwoye collapsed and later passed away while watching the match from the stadium.
Despite the somber events, Nigeria managed to secure a spot in the AFCON final after a dramatic penalty shootout victory against South Africa, in which they emerged victorious with a 4-2 win. In a video shared on the Super Eagles’ official social media account, the team can be seen holding a moment of silence during their dinner to honor the lives lost during the game. Captain Ahmed Musa expressed the team’s sincere condolences to the families affected by the tragedy, emphasizing that the team stands in solidarity with them during this difficult time.
Musa vowed that the team would lift the trophy in honor of those who lost their lives during the match, stating, “Insha Allah, on Sunday, we are going to lift that trophy for them and for our country.” Afterwards, one of the team’s players, Chigozie Awaziem, led a prayer for the souls of the deceased.
One of the individuals who tragically passed away during the match was Chief Nwoye, the President and Director-General of Group Auto Promotion. Eyewitness accounts indicated that Nwoye was overcome with excitement after a goal that was later disallowed, resulting in him collapsing inside the stadium. Despite efforts to revive him, he was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.
The Super Eagles’ gesture of observing a minute of silence and offering their condolences to the families of those who lost their lives serves as a testament to their empathy and solidarity in the face of tragedy. As they prepare for the AFCON final, the team’s commitment to lifting the trophy in honor of the deceased exemplifies their determination to honor the lives lost during the course of the game.
