Kehinde Fajobi
The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to summon Libya’s Ambassador to Nigeria for questioning over the poor treatment of the Super Eagles during their trip to Libya for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
This resolution followed an urgent motion raised by Mr. Kabiru Amadu, who represents the Gusau/Tsafe Federal Constituency of Zamfara State and chairs the House Committee on Sports. Amadu informed lawmakers that the Super Eagles, after defeating Libya 1-0 in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, travelled to Benghazi for the return leg of the AFCON qualifier.
Amadu highlighted the team’s ordeal upon arrival in Libya.
“The House is concerned about the frustrating 18-hour ordeal faced by the Super Eagles of Nigeria at Al-Abraq International Airport in Libya, where they were left stranded upon arrival at 14:00 on Sunday, October 13, 2024,” he said.
He detailed how their flight was unexpectedly diverted mid-air to a small airport used mainly for Hajj operations, with inadequate facilities.
“Despite arriving at a small airport with little or no amenities, the Libyan authorities did not allow the team to leave or access basic needs like internet or food,” he added.
Contributing to the debate, Mr. Chris Nkwonta from Abia State condemned the situation.
“This is unacceptable for our national team. We must condemn this, and it must not happen again,” Nkwonta said.
The House has urged the Federal Government to investigate the matter, involving the Libyan Ambassador, and mandated its Foreign Affairs and Sports Committees to probe the incident.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) was also urged to lodge a formal complaint with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and FIFA.