Nigeria have forfeited an African Cup of Nations qualifying game against Libya scheduled for tomorrow after being abandoned in a Libyan airport for over 16 hours.
The Super Eagles were due to face Libya in Benghazi in the return leg after defeating the Mediterranean Knights in Akwa Ibom, Nigeria.
However, the Nigerian squad were trapped in an abandoned airport in Libya. Captain William Troost-Ekong blasted Libya, claiming they had resorted to underhanded tactics to throw Nigeria off their game.
One theory claims the Libyans were enacting revenge after being delayed for a few hours before the first game on Nigerian soil.
Libya captain Faisal Al-Badri complained (via the Guardian NG): “Our luggage was searched inside the plane for an hour.
“We were also delayed in transportation from one city to another for three hours, even though we travelled on a private plane, and there was an airport close to the city we wanted to play in.
“After a long time, three non-air-conditioned minibuses and a police car arrived, in addition to two cars from the Libyan embassy.”
Nigerian players have refused to play tomorrow’s game against Libya, boarding a plane to return home after the farce.
Both nations have questions to answer
The Libyan Football Federation’s actions stain African football. Such unprofessional and unethical behaviour has no place in a sport about fair competition.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) must take decisive action to punish Libya for disregarding the rules and attempting to gain an unfair advantage.
Nigeria must also be held accountable if investigations reveal wrongdoing before their 1-0 win in Akwa Ibom.
These underhanded tactics undermine the integrity of African football and discourage talented players from participating in the continent’s premier competition.
Fraudulent acts of this nature are common in African club football. Two years ago, Rivers United FC claimed they were threatened in Libya.
CAF and other governing bodies must work together to eradicate such practices and create a more conducive environment for the development of African football.
