Super Eagles Held Hostage by Libya Sparks Global Outrage

The Nigerian Super Eagles were stranded for over 15 hours at the Al-Abraq Airport in Libya after their flight was diverted en route to an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. Locked in a desolate airport with no food, water, or phone connections, the players faced dire conditions that triggered an outcry from the football world.

The Nigerian team was originally scheduled to face Libya in a crucial match, but following the ordeal, they refused to play in protest. Nigerian authorities, including President Bola Tinubu, demanded swift justice from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) while condemning Libya’s actions.

Several Super Eagles players, including Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface and Nantes winger Moses Simon, expressed their frustration on social media, describing the situation as a hostage-like experience. Captain William Troost-Ekong also condemned the Libyan authorities, calling the treatment disgraceful and unacceptable for international football.

In response to the incident, the Nigerian government summoned the Libyan Charge d’Affaires in Abuja, while CAF is expected to take appropriate action after consulting its regulations. Football stars Emmanuel Adebayor and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang also voiced their disapproval, calling for respect and fair play in African football.