CAF Launches Investigation Into Alleged Maltreatment of Super Eagles in Libya, Promises Punitive Action
By Okafor Joseph Afam
October 14, 2024
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has launched a full investigation into the alleged maltreatment of the Nigerian National Football Team, the Super Eagles, during their visit to Libya. Reports emerged that the team was stranded for over 13 hours in Libya after the host country’s government deliberately disrupted their travel plans.
The Super Eagles, with the backing of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), opted to withdraw from their upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match against Libya due to the ordeal. On Monday afternoon, the team and coaching staff boarded their Valuejet chartered flight, heading back to Nigeria.
In response to the situation, the Libyan Football Federation denied making any public accusations against the Nigerian authorities. They explained that the delays experienced by the Super Eagles at Al Abraq International Airport were not intended as a hostile act. According to the Libyan authorities, the diversion of the Nigerian team’s flight was due to unforeseen circumstances, not a deliberate effort to cause harm.
However, CAF swiftly intervened, condemning the treatment of the Nigerian team. In a statement released on Monday, the football governing body called the incident “unacceptable” and promised a thorough, impartial investigation. CAF vowed to hold any parties found guilty of violating its regulations accountable.
The CAF statement read:
“CAF views the disturbing and unacceptable experiences of the Nigerian National Football Team (‘Super Eagles’) at an airport in Libya in a very serious light. The Confederation Africaine de Football (CAF) has been in contact with both Libyan and Nigerian authorities after being informed that the Nigerian National Football Team and their technical staff were stranded in disturbing conditions for several hours at an airport where they were allegedly instructed to land by the Libyan authorities.
“The matter has been referred to the CAF Disciplinary Board for investigation, and appropriate action will be taken against those who violated CAF Statutes and Regulations.”
As the investigation unfolds, the African football community awaits the findings of CAF’s probe, which could have serious implications for both the Libyan and Nigerian Football Federations.
