Football global governing body, the Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) has expressed its condolences to families and the Nigerian football community following reports that some Nigerian fans lost their lives while watching their national team's African Cup of Nations semifinal match against South Africa on Wednesday.
According to a tweet by the official account of the Super Eagles of Nigeria on Friday, February 9, a "few supporters tragically lost their lives.”
"In a cruel twist of fate, their fervent passion for the beautiful game unwittingly led them to their final moments,” the tweet added.
Among the reported fatalities was 62-year-old Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, a former Nigerian federal lawmaker.
He allegedly collapsed and died from a heart attack after South Africa scored a penalty equalizer in injury time.
FIFA commented on the Super Eagles' post, saying "Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have tragically passed away as well as the entire football community in Nigeria. Rest in peace."
Nigerian sports fans, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and opposition leader Atiku Abubakar have all sent their condolences to the bereaved families.