In the wake of Nigeria's heartbreaking exit from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, a prominent lawmaker has made a passionate appeal for unity and support for one of the team's stars.
Lawmaker Condemns Social Media Abuse of Super Eagles Star
Austin Meregini, the Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, has called on Nigerians to rally behind Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze. This plea comes despite the player's crucial penalty miss during the semi-final clash against Morocco. Meregini, representing the Umuahia East Constituency, stated emphatically that he, his constituency, and the entire people of Abia State stand firmly with the footballer.
The incident occurred during the high-stakes semi-final match on Wednesday in Rabat. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the match against the host nation, Morocco, went to a penalty shootout. Both Chukwueze and defender Bruno Onyemaechi failed to convert their spot-kicks, leading to Nigeria's elimination from the tournament.
The miss from Chukwueze triggered a wave of intense criticism and abuse directed at the player on various social media platforms. Fans expressed their fury online, a reaction the Abia lawmaker has strongly condemned.
"This is Not a Moment for Public Crucifixion" - Meregini
Defending the Super Eagles' winger, Deputy Speaker Meregini reminded the public of the unpredictable nature of football. He described it as a game of decisive moments where success and failure are separated by the finest margins. "This is not a moment for public crucifixion or mob judgment, but for national support and encouragement," Meregini declared. He stressed that "our athletes must be strengthened, not broken, by public discourse."
The legislator drew on football history to make his point, noting that even the most celebrated players in the world have faced similar setbacks. He listed global icons like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, alongside Nigerian legend Austin 'Jay Jay' Okocha, as examples of greats who have missed penalties at critical junctures. "No serious observer of the game reduces a player’s worth to a single moment," he argued.
Chukwueze's Career and Commitment Defended
Meregini went on to praise Chukwueze's professional career and dedication to the national team. He described the player as an outstanding footballer who has left a reputable mark at every club he has played for, including:
- Villarreal CF in Spain
- AC Milan in Italy
- Fulham in England, where he is currently on loan
The lawmaker highlighted Chukwueze's demonstrated professionalism, discipline, courage, and deep commitment to the Nigerian jersey through numerous scintillating performances. He insisted that such a solid and commendable record cannot and should not be erased by one unfortunate incident.
Meregini also addressed minor criticisms, such as those focused on Chukwueze chewing gum during the match. He labeled such attempts to ridicule the player as misplaced and unhelpful. The Deputy Speaker explained that chewing gum is a common practice among professional athletes and even top coaches like Sir Alex Ferguson and Carlo Ancelotti, often used to manage tension and maintain composure under extreme pressure.
"To weaponise such a little detail against a young Nigerian who has given his all each time he is called upon is totally unjustified," Meregini stated.
He concluded with a powerful call for national solidarity: "Nigeria stands taller when we defend our own in moments of adversity. We remain proud of Chukwueze and the rest of the Super Eagles, and we remain confident in their resilience and continued contribution to the national team."
