CAF threatens Libyan Federation with sanction over Super Eagles’ kidnap
CAF has initiated contact with both the Nigerian and Libyan authorities to address the situation.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has responded to the recent incident involving the Nigerian national football team, Super Eagles, who were stranded in Libya for over 14 hours due to alleged mistreatment by local authorities.
Following reports that the team and their technical staff were stuck at Al Abraq International Airport under challenging conditions, CAF has initiated contact with both the Nigerian and Libyan authorities to address the situation.
In a statement, CAF confirmed that it had been informed of the Super Eagles’ ordeal, noting that Libyan authorities allegedly instructed the team to land at the airport, where they later faced delays and logistical issues.
CAF expressed concern over the treatment of the Nigerian delegation, stating that the matter has been referred to its disciplinary board for further investigation.
The football governing body emphasised that appropriate actions would be taken against any party found to have violated CAF’s statutes and regulations.
This development follows the earlier response from the Libyan Football Federation (LFF), which attributed the delays to routine air traffic control and logistical challenges, dismissing claims of deliberate foul play.
The LFF also pointed out that their national team had faced similar difficulties during a recent trip to Nigeria for an Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier, calling for mutual understanding.
Despite the LFF’s explanation, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) formally lodged a complaint with CAF, citing the extended delay and alleged refusal of refuelling permissions for the Super Eagles’ chartered flight, ValueJet.
With CAF now involved, the incident will undergo a thorough review to determine whether any breaches of protocol or unfair treatment occurred.
CAF’s investigation will seek to clarify whether the Libyan authorities acted within the bounds of international sports and aviation regulations and ensure that such disruptions do not mar future competitions.
