Cairo Ojougboh: All to know about ex-lawmaker who died while watching 2023 AFCON

When Nigerians gathered to support their national team in the ongoing Africa Cup of Nation (AFCON) semi final match against the Bafana Bafana of South Africa on Wednesday night, tragedy struck Delta State when Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, a former member of the House of Representatives, suffered a fatal heart attack while watching the match.

At the moment when South Africa scored a penalty against Nigeria, Dr. Ojougboh shouted and collapsed. Despite immediate efforts to save him, he succumbed to the heart attack.

Things to know about Dr. Cairo Ojougboh

Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, was born on September 8, 1959, in Delta State, Nigeria, transitioned from a distinguished medical career to excel in politics and business. 

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Hailing from the Agbor tribe, he is renowned for his adeptness in strategic planning and program implementation. 

Summary of key points about the Dr. Cairo Ojougboh

• He was a member of the Women & Youth Presidential Campaign Team of the Presidential Campaign Council for the 2019 General Election.
• Served as the Presidential Spokesman for the APC in the Presidential Campaign Council for Delta State.
• Ran as an APC Gubernatorial Aspirant for Delta State in 2019.

Education

•  Attended Pilgrims Baptist Primary School and Columba’s Grammar School in Agbor.
• Studied at Auchi Polytechnic and the University of Benin.

Political Career

Held various positions within political parties, including;

• Chairman of Alliance for Democracy and National Vice Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for South South Nigeria.
• Served as Deputy National Chairman of the PDP and Political Adviser to Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark.
•  Currently a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
• Previously served in the House of Representatives, representing Ike Federal Constituency of Delta State.
• Held roles such as Chairman of the Petroleum Resources Committee and member of various House committees.
• Worked as an auxiliary teacher and completed internships in healthcare settings.
• Engaged in various committees and associations, including NEPZA, NEITI, and the National Oil & Gas Sector Reform Harmonization Committee.
• Holds several chieftaincy titles, including Akinuwa Anioma, Akinuwa of Agbor kingdom, Ihiale of Umunede, and Odua of Akumazi.

5 tips to control emotions and BP while watching game

Take deep breaths

Deep breathing can help activate the body’s natural relaxation response, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety. 

Take slow, deep breaths in through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and then exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat this for several minutes before, during, and after the game to help calm your emotions and control your blood pressure.

Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness involves focusing your attention on the present moment and accepting it without judgment. Instead of getting caught up in the excitement and stress of the game, try to observe your thoughts and emotions without reacting to them. This can help prevent your emotions from spiraling out of control.

Take breaks

If you find yourself becoming overwhelmed with emotions while watching the game, it’s important to take breaks and step away from the situation. Go for a short walk, engage in a calming activity, or distract yourself with something else until you feel more in control of your emotions.

Engage in relaxation techniques

There are various relaxation techniques that can help reduce emotional and physical tension. These include progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, meditation, and yoga. Find a technique that works for you and practice it regularly to help manage your emotions and blood pressure.

Avoid triggers

Identify any specific triggers that tend to evoke strong emotional responses during games. It could be certain calls made by the referee, the actions of certain players, or the overall score.

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If possible, try to avoid these triggers or find ways to mentally prepare yourself beforehand to minimize their impact on your emotions and blood pressure.

Remember, it’s important to prioritize your emotional well-being and not let the outcome of a game negatively impact your overall health.