The Libyan Football Federation is reportedly in a state of panic after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) requested documentation regarding the controversial cancellation of the AFCON Group D qualifier against Nigeria.
The match was called off after the Nigerian team refused to play, citing mistreatment following the diversion of their plane to Labraq Airport, where they were allegedly held for 18 hours without access to food or water.
According to a report by Libya Al-Ahrar Channel, Nasser Al-Suwaie, the Secretary-General of the Libyan Football Federation, confirmed that CAF has given both the Libyan and Nigerian football associations until the 20th of this month to submit all relevant documents concerning the incident.
In his statement, Al-Suwaie revealed that the Libyan FA has appointed a specialized lawyer to defend their position.
He suggested that there may be internal collusion within CAF but expressed confidence in the strength of the Libyan Federation’s stance. “Our position is strong,” he stated.
Al-Suwaie also clarified that the Libyan Football Federation was not responsible for diverting Nigeria’s plane to Labraq Airport, explaining that the decision was made by the Libyan government.
“The change in the plane’s landing was a decision by the Libyan state, and the sovereignty of Libya must be respected by all parties,” he added.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Super Eagles returned home on Monday with harrowing accounts of their experience.
Team manager Patrick Pascal described how the team was forced to take turns sleeping on the bare floor of the airport and alleged that Libyan officials had deliberately soiled the toilets in anticipation of the Nigerian team’s arrival.
CAF’s investigation into the incident continues, as both countries prepare to submit their official reports before the deadline.
