CAF demands answers from Libya over Nigeria match controversy

October 18, 2024

By Samuel Ogunsona

The Libyan Football Federation is on edge after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) requested documents related to the cancelled AFCON qualifying Group D match against Nigeria.

The controversy began when Nigeria’s plane was diverted to Labraq Airport and held for 18 hours without food and water, prompting the team to refuse to play the match.

According to Libya Al-Ahrar Channel, Nasser Al-Suwaie, Secretary-General of the Libyan Football Federation, confirmed that CAF has given both Libya and Nigeria until October 20th to submit the necessary documents.

Al-Suwaie revealed that the Libya FA has hired a specialized lawyer to provide evidence, suggesting potential collusion within CAF.

However, he maintained that the Libyan Federation’s position is strong.

Al-Suwaie clarified that the Libyan Federation did not divert the plane to Al-Abraq Airport, instead blaming the Libyan state’s decision. He emphasized that the sovereignty of the Libyan state must be respected.

The Super Eagles returned home with harrowing tales of sleeping on the airport floor and encountering deliberately vandalized toilet facilities, as reported by team manager Patrick Pascal

This incident has sparked outrage and raised concerns about Libya’s ability to host international matches.

In a related development, CAF has delisted the Nigeria vs Libya match from its fixture list, citing the ongoing investigation.

The match was initially scheduled to take place in Libya, but the controversy surrounding the Nigerian team’s treatment has led to its removal.

The football community is watching closely as this situation unfolds, with many criticizing CAF’s handling of the incident.

Some have even accused CAF of corruption and bias towards North African countries.