A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh who died during the tense Super Eagles match between Nigeria and South Africa, has been laid to rest in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State.
The late Ojougboh passed away at 64, on February 7, 2024, while watching the semi-final match between both countries during the 2023 African Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire
A source close to the politician said, “Cairo Ojougboh, a medical doctor, died during the Nigeria vs South Africa match.
“The incident happened when the penalty was awarded against Nigeria. Dr Ojougboh was said to have shouted and slumped due to a massive heart attack when SA scored.”
Ojougboh represented the Ika Federal Constituency from 2003-2007 in the House of Representatives.
In a homily on Friday at the funeral service at the St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Agbor, Rev’d Fr. Charles Uganwa blamed Nigerian politicians for underdevelopment after 64 years of nationhood,
He said, “I’m calling on all creatures to prepare for death daily because death is a must for all mortals.
“Dr. Cairo Ojougboh is a patriot, nationalist, statesman, socialite and man of the people who used his life to serve God and humanity.
“I want to equally remind politicians of the need to see their position as a platform to render selfless services.”
The cleric added that “it is absurd for Nigerians to suffer under-development and lack of electricity after 64 years of nationhood.”
He called on the deceased’s family to be closer to Christ who has called their father home.
Uganwa reminded the Governor Sheriff Oborevweri-led administration of the need to do more in human capital development and the revival of ailing and moribund industries as a way to tackle unemployment.
In his remark, the son of the deceased, Nkem Ojougboh said his father left indelible footprints on the sands of time and pledged on behalf of his family to immortalise him by upholding his legacies.
He thanked all who identified with his family since the demise of his father and sued for continued prayers for them to stand firm in this period of bereavement.
The state Governor, Oborevweri; former governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa; among other dignitaries, attended Ojougboh’s funeral.