AFCON: Libya on Edge as CAF Calls for Response to Nigeria’s Protest

The Libyan Football Federation is facing mounting pressure following a request from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to submit documentation regarding the controversial cancellation of the AFCON qualifying Group D match against Nigeria. This situation arose after the Nigerian team refused to play due to severe disruptions during their travel, which included their plane being diverted to Labraq Airport and held for 18 hours without access to food or water.

In an exclusive statement to Libya Al-Ahrar Channel, Nasser Al-Suwaie, the Secretary-General of the Libyan Football Federation, confirmed that both the Libyan and Nigerian football associations have been given until October 20 to present evidence related to this incident. Al-Suwaie disclosed that the Libyan FA has engaged a specialized lawyer to compile evidence and defend their position, alleging potential collusion from certain factions within CAF. He asserted that the Libyan Federation is prepared to present a strong case.

Al-Suwaie also clarified that the decision to divert the flight to Al-Abraq Airport was made by the Libyan state, emphasizing that the sovereignty of Libya must be respected. He stated, “We did not change the course of the plane’s landing; this was a decision made by the Libyan authorities.”

The situation has left the Super Eagles, Nigeria’s national football team, shaken. Upon their return, team manager Patrick Pascal recounted the harrowing experience of the players who took turns sleeping on the bare floor of the airport. Pascal also claimed that Libyan officials had deliberately sabotaged the airport facilities in anticipation of their arrival, leaving the toilets in a deplorable condition.