The House of Representatives has expressed strong disapproval over the reported mistreatment of the Super Eagles and their delegation by the Libyan Football Federation and the Libyan government. This followed the adoption of a motion presented by Rep. Kabiru Amodu (PDP-Zamfara) during a plenary session in Abuja.
Rep. Amodu explained that the Super Eagles were scheduled to play a return Africa Cup of Nations qualifier match against Libya’s Mediterranean Knights on October 15, 2024, in Benghazi. The Nigerian team had previously secured a 1-0 victory in the first leg held in Uyo, Akwa-Ibom.
The Nigerian delegation, which included members of the House of Representatives, the Deputy Governor of Edo State, and Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) officials, traveled to Libya on October 13, 2024, but faced significant challenges. Upon arrival at Al-Abraq International Airport, their flight was diverted unexpectedly, and they were subjected to an 18-hour ordeal at the airport.
The team was reportedly denied access to basic amenities such as food, internet, and the ability to leave the airport or proceed to their hotel. The Libyan authorities had cordoned off the area, leaving the players and officials stranded and frustrated. As a result of this experience, the Nigerian team considered boycotting the match due to the alleged hostile treatment by the Libyan Football Federation and government.
The House of Representatives condemned this mistreatment and called for appropriate actions to address the situation.