Tinubu Urges CAF To Sanction Libya Over Super Eagles’ Maltreatment
President Bola Tinubu has called on the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to investigate and take appropriate action against Libya following the alleged maltreatment of the Super Eagles of Nigeria at a Libyan airport.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu expressed his dismay at the inhumane treatment endured by the national football team. The statement was issued shortly after the team’s return to Nigeria through Kano Airport on Monday.
President Tinubu welcomed the Super Eagles home, stating that Libya had wilfully violated CAF’s statutes and regulations. He commended the quick response of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), which led to the withdrawal of the team from a scheduled match on Tuesday, citing the hostile conditions imposed by the Libyan authorities.
“The President applauds the proactive coordination between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Federal Ministry of Sports Development in addressing the unfortunate episode and ensuring the safe return of our players,” Onanuga noted.
President Tinubu also praised the Super Eagles for maintaining their resolve despite the distressing ordeal in Libya. He emphasised the unifying power of football and condemned Libya’s actions as unsportsmanlike, stressing that they were contrary to the spirit of the game.
Tinubu urged all football enthusiasts and administrators to collaborate in preventing such incidents in the future and ensuring that the dignity and respect of players are upheld across international competitions.
The incident has sparked widespread concern, with many calling for CAF to impose sanctions on Libya to deter future occurrences of mistreatment in African football.
