President Bola Tinubu’s administration has summoned Libya’s Chargé d’Affaires in Abuja following the Super Eagles’ detention at Al Abraq International Airport in Libya.
NewsBand reported that the Nigeria contingent spent over 13 hours stranded at Al-Abraq Airport after being denied entry into the country.
The team had initially traveled via a chartered flight from Nigeria on Sunday, preparing for the return leg of the qualifier following their victory over Libya in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Friday.
Despite prior clearance to land in Benghazi, Libyan authorities barred the team from entering, locking the airport gates and leaving the players without access to food, water, or communication
Meanwhile, frustrated by the logistical setbacks and the absence of Libyan Football Federation officials to assist, the Super Eagles decided to boycott the match and return home.
The Federal Government expressed dissatisfaction with the treatment of the Super Eagles, describing the situation as unacceptable.
This diplomatic action aims to clarify the circumstances surrounding the team’s detention and ensure such incidents do not reoccur. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is also reportedly investigating the matter.
Moreover, government officials and sports enthusiasts in Nigeria have strongly criticized the poor reception the team faced in Libya, calling for immediate resolutions and a formal apology from the Libyan authorities.
Negotiations between the two nations are ongoing, with the Libyan envoy summoned to explain the unfortunate incident and work towards an amicable solution.