Relations between Nigeria and Libya may be deteriorating. The Nigerian government has summoned the Libyan Chargé d’Affaires to the Foreign Ministry to explain the shabby treatment of the Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, at Al Abraq Airport.
The Super Eagles were on their way to Benghazi for the return leg of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier after trouncing Libya 1-0 in Uyo when their aircraft was suddenly diverted to Al Abraq.
The team was held for over 15 hours without food, medical supplies, accommodation, or security. In response, the Nigeria Football Federation decisively pulled out of the match and sent a strongly worded petition to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) demanding action.
Nigerian Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar confirmed the Libyan Chargé d’Affaires had been summoned, as Libya has no ambassador in Nigeria. Mr. Tuggar also confirmed that Nigeria – the Giant of Africa, had successfully evacuated its citizens back to Nigeria.
Reports indicate the Super Eagles chartered flight landed at Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, in the federal capital city of Abuja, late Monday afternoon after a nearly a five-hour flight.
Nigeria are back home safe after what happened at the airport. 💪🏻🇳🇬 pic.twitter.com/xeUSY4mnTc
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 14, 2024
National team captain William Troost-Ekong tweeted to his countrymen, “BACK HOME SAFE & SOUND”, he said. “Proud of this team, NAIJA SPIRIT can’t be broken. Throw at us what you want, it’s in our blood to overcome.“
Nigeria Demands Accountability
The Confederation of African Football condemned the embarrassment to the Super Eagles, describing it as “disturbing and unacceptable.” CAF has referred the matter to its Disciplinary Board for investigation and pledged to take appropriate action against those who violated CAF statutes and regulations.
However, a humbled Libya’s Football Federation (LFF) responded by denying any intentional wrongdoing. The LFF regretted the incident, attributing it to routine air traffic control protocols and logistical challenges. “We have the utmost respect for our Nigerian counterparts,” they pleaded with Nigeria in a statement, “and want to reassure them that the diversion of their flight was not intentional.“
The incident had caused angry reactions on social media among Nigerians, with calls for decisive action against Libya. Mr. Shehu Sani, a former Nigerian senator, called for “serious sanctions” against Libya.
Nigerian Sports Minister John Enoh described the situation at Al Abraq as “an almost hostage” scenario but said his primary focus was the safe return of the Nigerian heroes. “All hands must be on deck to protect our national team,” he stated.
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