An Akure, Ondo State-based medical practitioner and Chief Medical Director of Sckye Hospital, Dr Thomas-Wilson Ikubese, has warned Super Eagles fans and football lovers who are highly emotional and have heart conditions to avoid Sunday’s final.
Ikubese conveyed the advice through a statement on Friday in Akure, saying this category of persons should involve in diversionary measures instead.
Super Eagles of Nigeria will face host nation Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire on Sunday in final of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Ikubese’s advice comes against the backdrop of reports that about four Nigerians died while watching the Eagles’ semi-final match against South Africa on Wednesday.
One of the victims is a former member of the House of Representatives from Delta State, Dr Cairo Ojougbo.
The doctor suggested that such people should pick their phones and follow the live scores, to avoid screaming and leave the update if they are feeling uncomfortable.
“I will counsel that this category of persons should not watch the live transmission of the match.
“If they must do, however, they should deliberately engage in diversionary therapy as to minimize their systemic reactions to the activities therein.
“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.
“On no account should they scream or jump up. If in spite of all these, they yet begin to feel uncomfortable, they should quit watching.
“If they are not sure of conducting themselves with such level of decorum, they should boycott the live transmission and watch the highlights thereafter,” he said.
Ikubese later condoled with the families of those who lost their loved ones while watching the football encounter.
He wished Nigeria luck in the coming encounter.