The Libyan Football Federation has denied any involvement in the inhumane treatment meted out to Nigeria’s Super Eagles in the country.
Gmartnews reported that Nigerian football team have been stranded in the North African Country for over 14 hours.
Following Nigeria’s 1-0 win over Libya in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Friday, a return leg for the ongoing AFCON 2025 Qualifier was fixed for Benghazi, Libya, on Tuesday.
Ahead of the return leg, the Nigerian team for Benghazi via a chartered flight, on Sunday.
However, the flight was diverted from the their initial destination about an hour to landing.
The Nigerian players had to land at the Al Abraq International Airport, which is only used for hajj operations.
After landing, the NFF made arrangements for the trip by road to the venue of the match following the absence of officials of the Libyan Football Federation.
However, officials at the airport did not allow the chartered bus to enter the airport.
Following the developments, the Super Eagles have resolved not to play the match any longer but to return home.
However, LFF reacting in a statement on Monday, cited routine air traffic control protocols, security checks and logistical challenges as factors that can affect air travel.
They also claimed that a similar incident happened when their players travelled to Uyo, Nigeria, for the first leg of the fixture.
The statement released on X read: “We are deeply concerned about the recent reports surrounding the diversion of the Nigerian national team’s flight ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Libya.
“While we regret any inconvenience caused, it is essential to note that such incidents can occur due to routine air traffic control protocols, security checks, or logistical challenges that affect international air travel.
“These are standard procedures at airports worldwide, and delays or rerouting, though unfortunate, are not uncommon.
“We have the utmost respect for our Nigerian counterparts and want to reassure them that the diversion of their flight was not intentional.
“There are no grounds to accuse the Libyan security teams or the Libyan Football Federation of deliberately orchestrating this incident. Such actions are inconsistent with our values and principles.
“We firmly reject any claims that suggest foul play or sabotage in this situation. It is important to highlight that just last week, our own national team faced significant challenges upon our arrival in Nigeria for the third match of the Africa Cup of Nations qualification.
“Despite the difficulties we encountered, we did not make public accusations nor question the integrity of the Nigerian authorities. Football, in its essence, unites nations, and we are committed to upholding the spirit of fairness and mutual respect both on and off the field.
“In Libya, we pride ourselves on our hospitality and our welcoming nature. We have always prioritized treating all visiting teams, including our African brothers and other international delegations, with the respect and dignity they deserve.
“Hosting these events is a great honor for us, and we strive to ensure that all teams feel safe and respected as our guests. This commitment to equality and hospitality is a core aspect of our culture and tradition.
“We hope that this misunderstanding can be resolved with understanding and goodwill. Our doors are open to our Nigerian brothers and all African teams, and we continue to promote the spirit of unity, sportsmanship, and friendship in the world of football.”
