Lifestyle

PHOTOS: Haunting photographs of Patrice Lumumba, Congo’s first Prime Minister, alongside his closest allies, Maurice Mpolo and Joseph Okito

Published

7 months ago

August 30, 2025

Haunting photographs of Patrice Lumumba, Congo’s first Prime Minister, alongside his closest allies, Maurice Mpolo and Joseph Okito, under guard as they await their fate, January 1961
It was not merely the image of three men under arrest, but of a young nation’s dream being strangled before it could take root.

Patrice Émery Lumumba was born on 2 July 1925 in Onalua, Kasai Province, in the Belgian Congo. By the late 1950s, as the winds of independence swept across Africa, he emerged as one of the sharpest voices against colonial domination. In 1958, he co-founded the Mouvement National Congolais (MNC), the first truly national party calling for unity in a country divided by ethnicity, class, and Belgian influence.

When Congo held its first elections in May 1960, Lumumba’s party triumphed, and on 24 June 1960, at just 34 years old, he was sworn in as the country’s first Prime Minister. At the independence ceremony on 30 June, before King Baudouin of Belgium and international dignitaries, Lumumba refuses to follow the expected script of polite gratitude. Instead, he delivered a speech that resonated with Africans everywhere and unsettled the colonial establishment. He spoke openly about the hardships of Belgian rule and reminded his people that independence had been won “through struggle and sacrifice, not a gracious gift.” That moment marked him as a symbol of African pride, and a target for those who opposed his vision.

Barely weeks after independence, Congo plunged into crisis. The army mutinied, their colonial officers supported the secession of the mineral-rich province of Katanga under Moïse Tshombe, and chaos spread. Lumumba turned to the United Nations, appealing for help to preserve Congolese sovereignty. But the UN limited its role to peacekeeping without challenging their colonizers involvement directly.

This left Lumumba increasingly isolated as his opponents consolidated power.

Seeking assistance elsewhere, Lumumba approached the Soviet Union. In the Cold War climate, this move raised concern in Western capitals. Western officials described Lumumba as a serious risk to Western interests, and their colonizers also worked with Katangan leaders to weaken him.

Internal betrayal cut deepest. Joseph Kasavubu, the ceremonial President meant to share power with Lumumba, announced Lumumba’s dismissal on 5 September 1960. Lumumba refused to step down, insisting on his legitimacy as the elected head of government. But days later, on 14 September, Colonel Joseph-Désiré Mobutu, an officer Lumumba himself had elevated seized power in a coup. Mobutu presented himself as neutral, but he was aligned with external backers. Lumumba was placed under house arrest by the very men he had trusted.

Still defiant, Lumumba attempted to escape in early December 1960 to Stanleyville (Kisangani), where his supporters had declared the Free Republic of the Congo. Betrayed en route, he was captured on 1 December by Mobutu’s soldiers. His humiliation began immediately: soldiers mocked him, paraded him through villages, and, according to some accounts, even forced him to swallow the written text of one of his own speeches.

On 17 January 1961, Lumumba and his closest allies; Maurice Mpolo and Joseph Okito were flown under guard to Katanga, then controlled by his rivals. During the flight, they were beaten by Congolese soldiers. In Élisabethville (today Lubumbashi), they were taken to a villa where Moïse Tshombe, Katangan officials, and colonial authorities awaited. That night, they were executed by firing squad.

In the days that followed, efforts were made to conceal what had happened. The authorities initially claimed that Lumumba had escaped custody and been killed by villagers. Few believed this, and when the truth emerged, it triggered outrage across the globe.

Protests and demonstrations broke out in many countries. In Belgrade, Yugoslavia (now Serbia), crowds gathered outside the Belgian embassy chanting slogans in Lumumba’s honor.

In Nigeria, demonstrations erupted in Lagos, Enugu, and Onitsha. In Lagos, protesters converged at Rowe Park in Yaba, and anger spilled over into attacks on foreign-owned businesses before being dispersed by police. Across Africa and beyond, Patrice Lumumba had become more than a man, he was a symbol of independence and dignity.

Even in his final hours, Lumumba remained unbowed. In his last letter to his wife Pauline, he declared that though he might not survive, the Congo’s dignity and freedom would endure. He wrote that history would not be written in Brussels, Washington, or Paris, but in Africa itself, by peoples who had thrown off colonial chains. “Africa,” he promised, “will write its own history, a history of glory and dignity.”

Patrice Lumumba was only 35 when his life was cut short. His death was the result of a web of betrayals: by Kasavubu, who dismissed him; by Mobutu, whom he had promoted but who seized power; by the United Nations, which failed to intervene; and by foreign powers who opposed his leadership. Yet in death, he rose higher than his enemies. His name adorned streets and monuments from Lagos to Belgrade, Accra to Cairo, and beyond.

For decades, his family pleaded for the return of his remains. In 2002, Belgium formally acknowledged its role in his killing, but no amount of recognition could erase the injustice. In 2022 they handed back one of his teeth, the last physical fragment of the man.

Patrice Lumumba’s life was brief, his time in office shorter still, but his vision for an Africa united in dignity and independence endures. He remains not only Congo’s first prime minister, but one of the immortal martyrs of African freedom.

FOLLOW US ON:

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

PINTEREST

TIKTOK

YOUTUBE

LINKEDIN

TUMBLR

INSTAGRAM

Post Views: 937

Lifestyle

Ohanaeze disowns installation of Igbo king in S’Africa

Published

8 hours ago

April 2, 2026

Newsbreak365_Admin

The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has rejected the controversial installation of an “Igwe Ndigbo na East London” in East London, South Africa.

It stated that the title is not recognised and lacks legal backing.

The PUNCH had earlier reported that violent unrest broke out on Monday in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa following protests against the coronation, with demonstrators torching vehicles and looting shops owned by foreign nationals.

Video evidence shared on X showed protesters setting several vehicles and buildings allegedly belonging to foreigners ablaze, as security forces intensified efforts to restore order.

The outrage has continued to grow, with foreign-owned properties becoming primary targets.

However, in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Ezechi Chukwu, the group expressed concern over tensions triggered by the development, noting reports of attacks on innocent persons and destruction of property.

The statement read, “We express deep concern over the resulting disturbances, condemn the unwarranted attacks on innocent persons and destruction of property and call on relevant authorities to take necessary steps to prevent further escalation.”

The organisation condemned the violence and urged South African authorities to act swiftly to prevent further breakdown of law and order.

Ohanaeze stressed that the Igbo are globally known for their peaceful disposition, enterprise and respect for the laws of their host communities, as it dissociated itself from any conduct that contravenes local customs and traditions.

It clarified that the purported installation in East London “only amounts to a mere nominal observance since it is not backed by any law.”

The group further noted that, in line with the position of the South East Council of Traditional Rulers, it did not recognise the conferment of the “Eze Ndigbo” title outside Igbo land.

Ohanaeze advised Igbo communities in the diaspora to adopt non-kingship titles such as “Onyendu” for internal coordination to avoid misrepresentation.

It also urged Igbo residents abroad to conduct themselves with discipline and respect for the laws of their host countries, while calling on the South African government and citizens to uphold peaceful coexistence.

The group appealed for calm, mutual respect and constructive engagement among all parties involved.

punch.ng

FOLLOW US ON:

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

PINTEREST

TIKTOK

YOUTUBE

LINKEDIN

Post Views: 29

Lifestyle

Political titans, Dangote attend El-Rufai mother’s burial

Published

3 days ago

March 30, 2026

Newsbreak365_Admin

On Sunday, dignitaries from different political divides were present at the Central Mosque, Abuja, in honour of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, the deceased mother of the former governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai.

From his residence in Abuja to the mosque and lastly to the Gudu cemetery, both members of the opposition parties and the ruling party were present to offer condolences.

Specifically, his successor, Governor Uba Sani, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, were present in his house and at the funeral prayers.

The two had parted ways politically with El-Rufai, though they were mutual friends before.

Also present were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, former governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, former governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal, and ex-Adamawa State governor, Jibrilla Bindow.

All Progressives Congress governors were also in attendance, including Governors Babagana Zulum (Borno) and Mohammed Bago (Niger); former national chairman of APC, Abdullahi Ganduje; former Minister of Interior, Abdulrahman Dambazau, among others.

The 16th Emir of Kano, Lamido Sanusi, a former Zamfara State governor, Abdulaziz Yari, Senator Shehu Sani and billionaire businessman, Aliko Dangote, were also present.

At the interment of Hajiya El-Rufai at the Gudu Cemetery, Abuja, on Sunday, the former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami, held the two estranged friends (El-Rufai and Sani) by their shoulders and spoke a few words capable of melting the hardest of hearts.

Looking across his shoulders, he said, “Let us focus on the things that unite us because they are more than the things that divide us.

This life and everything it contains will end, and the grave is our end. No matter how you strive, you won’t get anything until Allah (God) grants it to you.”

Atiku had earlier announced his attendance in a post on his verified X handle, saying, “Today, I joined family, friends and associates of Mallam Nasir El-Rufai and the extended El-Rufai family at the Janazah (funeral prayer) of the matriarch of the family, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai.

“May God continue to comfort the family and all who mourn her. And may Allah grant her Aljannah Firdaus. Amin.”

Prominent Nigerians, including President Bola Tinubu, had earlier paid tributes to the deceased.

Tinubu, in a statement signed by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, commiserated with El-Rufai, urging him to find the strength to move on in the absence of his beloved mother.

“Nasir, please accept my heartfelt condolences on the passing of your beloved mother, Hajiya Umma, which happened today (Friday) in Cairo. As someone who had also lost an old mother, I share in your grief,” Onanuga wrote on behalf of President Tinubu.

Sani also earlier extended condolences on behalf of the Kaduna State Government and its people, describing the late Hajiya Umma as “a devoted mother and matriarch, a woman of rare grace, moral clarity, and quiet strength,” who embodied faith, patience, generosity, and community reconciliation.

“On behalf of the government and people of Kaduna State, I extend my deepest condolences to His Excellency, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, and the entire El-Rufai family on the passing of their beloved mother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai,” Sani said.

The National Chairman of the APC, Prof Nentawe Yilwatda, visited El-Rufai and his family, urging them to put their faith in God at all times.

He posted, “I visited the home of Mallam Nasir El-Rufai to commiserate with him and the entire family on the painful loss of his beloved mother, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai, who passed away yesterday (Friday).

“The death of a mother is a deeply personal and irreplaceable loss. It is a moment of profound grief not only for the immediate family, but also for all who understand the priceless role of a mother in the life of her children and family.

“Mama lived a fulfilled life and, by the grace of God, leaves behind a legacy through her children, family and all those whose lives she touched.

“At this difficult time, I pray that Almighty Allah forgives her shortcomings, grants her Aljannatul Firdaus, and comforts Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, the entire El-Rufai family, and all loved ones she left behind. May Allah grant the family the strength, patience and fortitude to bear this painful loss,” the APC Chairman wrote.

Also, the immediate past governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, Dr Kayode Fayemi, expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Hajiya Umma.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the Fayemi Media Office, the ex-governor described her death as a profound loss, not only to the El-Rufai family but also to all who were touched by her life of humility, faith, and service.

He noted that the late Hajiya Umma lived a life defined by strong moral values, devotion to family, and commitment to community—qualities he said are reflected in her son’s life and public service.

“I received with deep sadness the news of the passing of Hajiya Umma El-Rufai. Her departure is a painful loss, but we take solace in the exemplary life she lived and the legacy she leaves behind,” Fayemi said.

The death came at a time when El-Rufai was in the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission following his arrest over allegations of corruption and money laundering.

He was arraigned before a Federal High Court in Kaduna on March 24 on a 10-count charge, with the case adjourned until March 31, 2026, for hearing of pending applications, including his bail request.

He was released temporarily from the ICPC custody, reportedly to witness the burial rites of his mother.

punch.ng

FOLLOW US ON:

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

PINTEREST

TIKTOK

YOUTUBE

LINKEDIN

Post Views: 83

Lifestyle

Veteran Filmmaker, Wale Adenuga Reveals Why He Sacked And Recalled Papa Ajasco

Published

4 days ago

March 29, 2026

Oluwagbenga Olaoye

According to Adenuga, the actor was initially removed from the role due to serious misconduct, including attempts to claim ownership of the Papa Ajasco brand.

Veteran filmmaker Wale Adenuga has revealed the reasons behind the removal and subsequent return of Abiodun Ayoyinka in his role as Papa Ajasco.

According to Adenuga, the actor was initially removed from the role due to serious misconduct, including attempts to claim ownership of the Papa Ajasco brand.

The conflict reportedly began when Ayoyinka organised a tour using the Papa Ajasco name without informing the production team.

The situation escalated after the Nigerian Copyright Commission discovered that he had tried to register the brand under his name, even though the producers already held the legal rights.

Adenuga, in an interview with Punch, described this act as a betrayal that led to the actor’s dismissal.

Despite the controversy, Ayoyinka was later brought back to the role, a decision Adenuga said was based on practicality and the actor’s talent rather than personal feelings.

He noted that while talented actors can be challenging, their skills sometimes make them indispensable.

The producer also discussed changes in the entertainment industry, mentioning that his productions have adapted to digital platforms.

Shows like Akpan and Oduma are now distributed mainly on YouTube, while WAPTV maintains an online presence and mobile app to reach audiences.

On the topic of royalties and actor welfare, Adenuga said the current system needs reform and that responsibility should not rest solely on producers.

He suggested that a well-structured industry could ensure fair compensation and long-term support for actors, reducing the burden on individual production teams.

He said, “That level of betrayal led to his dismissal. I understand the psychology of actors. Sometimes the most talented can also be the most difficult. As a producer, you sometimes have to choose between talent and temperament. Despite everything, I would still work with him because he is a good actor. Our content is now on social media.

“Some productions like Akpan and Oduma are distributed primarily on YouTube, while WAPTV also has an online presence and app. I agree that actors should benefit more in a structured system. It is not the sole responsibility of producers to manage long-term welfare. A proper industry structure would ensure that everyone is taken care of.”

FOLLOW US ON:

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

PINTEREST

TIKTOK

YOUTUBE

LINKEDIN

Post Views: 112