A Congolese supporter has gained significant attention on social media for his unique way of showing support for his national team during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, nicknamed “Lumumba Vea” due to his striking resemblance to the country’s assassinated independence hero, Patrice Lumumba, has become an internet sensation by posing like a statue of the late leader during matches.
Nkuka Mboladinga’s pose, which involves raising his right arm and standing perfectly still for the entire duration of the matches, is a tribute to Lumumba’s memorial statue in Kinshasa. He believes that by staying still, he is giving strength to the team and passing energy on to the players. The supporter has been training to maintain this pose for extended periods, including the possibility of extra time and penalty shootouts, in preparation for the team’s potential advancement in the tournament.
Patrice Lumumba is a highly revered figure in the Democratic Republic of Congo, widely regarded as the nationalist leader who helped end Belgian colonial rule in 1960. He became the first prime minister of the newly independent country but was killed less than a year later during a conflict with a Belgian-backed secessionist movement. Lumumba’s legacy remains significant, symbolizing what the country could have achieved after independence, and his death remains a topic of controversy, with questions surrounding the extent of Belgium’s and the United States’ involvement.
For Nkuka Mboladinga, Lumumba is more than just a historical figure; he is a role model and a symbol of the country’s struggle for freedom. The supporter’s tribute has not only gained him international attention but also highlighted the enduring legacy of Patrice Lumumba. As the Democratic Republic of Congo progresses in the tournament, Nkuka Mboladinga’s unique display of support is likely to continue to inspire and fascinate fans around the world.
Despite the challenges of maintaining his pose, especially in the face of excited fans, Nkuka Mboladinga remains committed to his tribute. He has not yet met the players but believes that they appreciate his efforts, and he is happy to play his role in supporting the team. As the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations continues, Nkuka Mboladinga’s story serves as a reminder of the power of sports to bring people together and inspire devotion, while also highlighting the lasting impact of historical figures like Patrice Lumumba on contemporary culture and identity.
