Austin Meregini, Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, has called on Nigerians to support Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze after the player missed a penalty in Nigeria’s AFCON semi-final against hosts Morocco.
Chukwueze and defender Bruno Onyemaechi both missed spot-kicks during the shootout, and the defeats sparked heavy online abuse of players.
“This is not a moment for public crucifixion or mob judgment, but for national support and encouragement,” Meregini said, urging calm on social media.
Meregini defended Chukwueze’s record, saying the winger has been “an outstanding footballer” for club and country and should not be reduced to a single mistake.
“No serious observer of the game reduces a player’s worth to a single moment,” he said, adding that great players such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Jay-Jay Okocha have also missed important penalties.
The deputy speaker warned that attacking players after a miss harms national unity and called on fans and commentators to “strengthen, not break” athletes through public discourse.
He also criticised attempts to ridicule Chukwueze over minor matters, including reports about chewing gum, saying such details are being “weaponised” against a young player.
The comments echo wider debate in Nigeria about fan conduct and the pressure placed on national-team stars during major tournaments.
Supporters and officials have urged respectful behaviour and solidarity as the Super Eagles regroup following the loss.
