During the intense clash between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and South Africa’s Bafana Bafana, a serving National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, known as Samuel, tragically slumpes and died.
Speaking to The Tribune, an eyewitness recounted the painful moment at a Sports Viewing Center (SVC) in Numan, where Samuel, serving in Adamawa State, succumbed before witnessing Nigeria’s crucial victory in the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
“We lost one Nigerian a few minutes ago during our victory celebration over South Africa today at our SVC here in Numan,” the witness lamented.
Detailing the sequence of events, the witness revealed, “The Corps member, serving in Numan from Kaduna, had fainted before the kick-off of the winning goal. He died before they could reach the hospital in Numan. May his soul rest in peace.”
NYSC Coordinator Mr. Jingi Dennis, confirming the tragic incident, expressed his condolences, awaiting further details.
“I have received the news of his death last night. I hope to have more details today,” Dennis conveyed.
According to Samuel’s companions, who were with him during the match, he expressed discomfort with penalty shootouts before suddenly collapsing.
“He was confirmed dead at the General Hospital in Numan by the Doctor,” Dennis concluded, mourning the untimely loss.
