The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to summon the Libyan Ambassador to Nigeria for questioning over the mistreatment of the Super Eagles during their recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers in Libya.
This resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved by Kabiru Amadu, the representative of Gusau/Tsafe Federal Constituency in Zamfara State, who also chairs the House Committee on Sports.
Amadu raised concerns about the ordeal faced by the national football team in Libya after their 1-0 victory over the Mediterranean Knights of Libya in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Amadu informed the House that the Super Eagles flew to Libya on Sunday for the return leg of the AFCON qualifiers, which was scheduled to take place at the Martyrs of February Stadium in Benghazi.
However, upon arrival at Al-Abraq International Airport, the team faced significant delays and harsh treatment.
“The House is concerned about the frustrating 18-hour ordeal faced by the Super Eagles at Al-Abraq International Airport in Libya, where they were stranded upon arrival at 14:00 on Sunday, October 13, 2024, until their eventual departure 18 hours later,” Amadu stated.
He further revealed that the team’s flight had been diverted mid-air to the small Al-Abraq airport, which is typically used for Hajj operations, instead of Benghazi.
“Despite being diverted to an airport with little or no facilities, the Libyan authorities did not allow the team to leave or access their hotel.
They were denied internet access, food, and other basic necessities, as the airport was cordoned off, leaving them effectively held hostage for 18 hours,” Amadu explained.
In support of the motion, Chris Nkwonta, representing Ukwa East/Ukwa West Federal Constituency, Abia State, condemned the treatment of the Nigerian team, stating, “This is unacceptable for our national team.
We must condemn this, and it must not happen again.”
The House, after adopting the motion, urged the Federal Government to summon the Libyan Ambassador to address the incident.
Additionally, it mandated its Committees on Foreign Affairs and Sports to investigate the matter.
The House also called on the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) to file an official complaint with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) regarding the dehumanising treatment endured by the Super Eagles.
