Warning Issued for Nigerians with Heart Conditions Ahead of AFCON Final

As excitement builds for the highly anticipated African Cup of Nations (AFCON) final showdown between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Elephants of Cote D’Ivoire on Sunday, an Akure-based medical practitioner, Thomas-Wilson Ikubese, issues a cautionary advisory to individuals with heart conditions.

Following reports of four fatalities during the Super Eagles’ semi-final clash against South Africa on Wednesday, Mr. Ikubese strongly urged football enthusiasts with emotional tendencies and underlying heart conditions to exercise caution.

In a statement released on Friday, Mr. Ikubese recommended that individuals in this vulnerable category should consider alternative ways to engage with the match. Instead of risking the emotional rollercoaster of live viewing, he suggested they follow the live scores on their phones and intentionally downplay their emotional reactions.

“They can pick up their phones and be engaged therein while watching the match and deliberately play down their emotions, acting like the outcome of the match is of no consequence to them,” he advised. He emphasized that under no circumstances should they scream or jump up, and if discomfort arises, they should promptly cease watching.

For those uncertain about maintaining such composure, Mr. Ikubese proposed boycotting live transmissions altogether and catching up on the highlights later. Expressing condolences to the families affected by the recent tragedies, he emphasized the importance of prioritizing health and well-being during moments of intense excitement.