The Traffic

"AFCON Controversy: CAF President Blasts Inhumane Treatment of Nigeria’s Super Eagles in Libya"

In a stunning turn of events ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifier, CAF President Patrice Motsepe has broken his silence on the shocking treatment of Nigeria’s Super Eagles in Libya. The team, scheduled to play against Libya on October 15, 2024, was reportedly held hostage for over 20 hours at a Libyan airport, sparking outrage across the football community.

During a press conference, Motsepe condemned the incident but refrained from discussing specific details until CAF reaches a final decision. “We should have zero tolerance,” Motsepe said, stressing the need for fair play and sportsmanship across African football. “When there was this problem of the Nigerian national team in Libya, I will not comment on that because there is a proper investigation. But I want to emphasise a principle that we will not tolerate this kind of behaviour.”

Motsepe acknowledged that such incidents are not new in African football, recalling similar stories of national teams and clubs being subjected to hours of delays, unnecessary document checks, and even sabotage tactics like false COVID-19 diagnoses to target key players. “It’s this lack of sportsmanship that has existed, and we haven’t taken effective action,” he added, promising reforms to prevent future occurrences.

The Super Eagles’ match against Libya was marred by controversy after their flight to Benghazi was unexpectedly diverted to a smaller airport, leaving the team stranded. Despite their readiness to play, the Nigerian side opted out of the game, protesting their prolonged detention at the airport.

As the CAF investigation continues, football fans await a final verdict on the matter, with Motsepe vowing that appropriate action will be taken. The incident has ignited widespread criticism, with calls for stricter measures to ensure fair treatment of teams in international competitions.

Yakubu Haruna Yakubu