Korede Abdullah in Lagos
Nigeria’s Minister for Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, has announced the country’s withdrawal from the Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Libya, citing safety concerns for the national team, the Super Eagles.
The team was reported to have been subjected to traumatic and psychologically torturous treatment at the Libyan airport, making it impossible for them to participate in the match.
“For now, our primary concern is the safety of the members of our national team. With the events of the past hours,their safety is not guaranteed and the team insists they’re unable to go ahead with the match not just because of the trauma and consequent psychological torture but also because of fear for their safety.”, the Minister is quoted to have said.
The Super Eagles’ flight was redirected to a different city, and upon arrival, they were denied entry into their hotel, forcing them to spend the night at the airport. This poor treatment has sparked outrage, with Nigerian football star Victor Osimhen condemning the actions as “uncalled for and inhumane”.
Senator Enoh has instructed the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) president to file a formal complaint with the Confederation of African Football (CAF), emphasizing the need for severe consequences against the Libyan football federation.
Enoh stressed that the primary concern is the safety and well-being of the Nigerian team, urging CAF to prioritize their secure return over insisting on the match’s continuation.
CAF President and Secretary General were informed of Nigeria’s stance during a conference call, where Enoh made it clear that the Libyan football federation’s actions will not be tolerated.
The Nigerian government demands a thorough investigation and repercussions for the unacceptable treatment of their national team.
Enoh added “As Sports Minister, I have instructed the NFF president to lay a formal complaint to CAF without prejudice to any actions already taken.”
The match, scheduled for tomorrow at the Benina Martyrs Stadium, is now uncertain, with no official statement from CAF on possible postponement or cancellation.
The Nigerian team has decided to boycott the fixture, standing firm in their decision not to play under such hostile conditions
