Libya will be punished if found guilty of maltreating Nigerian team players – CAF President

The President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has stated that a probe is ongoing to ascertain the facts concerning the issue between Libya and the Nigerian national team over travelling matters.

He indicated that the CAF disciplinary committee will deal with the Libyan Football Federation (LFF) if they are found guilty of intentionally neglecting the Nigerian players, leaving them stranded at the airport for hours.

Speaking at the 46th CAF Ordinary Assembly in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Dr. Motsepe assured the public of a fair hearing into the case.

"When there was this problem with the Nigerian national team in Libya, and I will not comment on that because there's a proper investigation. But I want to emphasise a principle that we will not tolerate it.

"This is something that has been going on for quite some time. Let me emphasise that the Nigeria and Libya situation is being properly investigated and appropriate action will be taken," he said.

Background:

The Super Eagles of Nigeria were stranded at Al-Abaq Airport ahead of their return encounter in the 2025 African Cup of Nations qualifiers against Libya.

As per reports, the team's chartered flight was headed towards the city of Benghazi before it was rerouted to a different location mid-air.

The Super Eagles team and officials departed for the North African state in the early hours of Sunday, October 13.

The Nigerian Football Federation has since announced that the Super Eagles will not honour the match.

The Libyan Football Federation denied reports of maltreating the players and added that the incident happened due to security reasons.

Watch the video below:

Libya and Nigeria's cancelled AFCON game is being investigated by CAF.

CAF President, Patrice Motsepe says proper action will be taken if the Libyan Football Federation is found guilty of maltreating the Nigerian team. pic.twitter.com/y5T107dLqR

— Africa Facts Zone (@AfricaFactsZone) October 22, 2024

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