Breaking News: CAF to Ban Libya from Competitions Over Alleged Inhumane Treatment of Nigerian Team
In an unprecedented move, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has decided to impose a severe penalty on Libya for what it describes as inhumane treatment of the Nigerian national football team. This decision, announced today, comes as a result of the events surrounding the postponed Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier match between Libya and Nigeria, initially scheduled for October 15 at the Benina Martyrs Stadium. Following an intense investigation, CAF has opted to ban Libya from its competitions for a currently unspecified period, citing the country’s failure to provide adequate facilities and humane conditions for the visiting Nigerian team.
The controversy started when the Nigerian Super Eagles’ flight to Benghazi, Libya, was redirected to Labraq Airport without prior notice, leaving players and staff stranded. The Nigerian team was reportedly held for 18 hours at the airport with no access to food, water, or adequate rest. Nigerian officials described the conditions as “hostile and dangerous,” alleging that players and staff were detained without basic amenities and were forced to remain in locked quarters under constant watch. The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) lodged a formal protest with CAF, demanding that the incident be reviewed and calling for immediate intervention to prevent a repeat of such treatment.
CAF’s Disciplinary Committee held a video conference on October 23, during which representatives from both Libya and Nigeria presented their accounts of the incident. According to sources close to the investigation, CAF officials were particularly concerned about Libya’s failure to provide for the safety and well-being of the visiting team, as required under the organization’s regulations. The committee’s review reportedly uncovered multiple lapses, including inadequate preparation for receiving international teams and violations of CAF’s code of conduct for hosting matches. CAF President Patrice Motsepe condemned the incident, promising a strict response to such infractions, especially those that endanger the safety of players and staff.
In a statement following the announcement of the ban, CAF emphasized that it has a “zero-tolerance policy” toward actions that compromise the integrity and safety of competitions. “The well-being of players, coaching staff, and all participating personnel is non-negotiable. CAF will continue to enforce high standards and ensure that all member nations adhere to its guidelines. The treatment Nigeria received in Libya was unacceptable and, unfortunately, has resulted in Libya’s suspension from participating in CAF-sanctioned competitions,” said Motsepe.
The suspension is expected to have serious repercussions for Libyan football. Not only will the national team be barred from upcoming CAF tournaments, but Libyan clubs competing in CAF’s Champions League and Confederation Cup will also face disqualification. This decision will likely impact the development of Libyan football and could hamper the nation’s aspirations of building a competitive international football presence.
The Nigerian team, on the other hand, expressed relief at CAF’s decision. “Our players deserve the respect and treatment that all athletes do when they go out to represent their country. We are pleased that CAF is standing up for the rights of players,” said an NFF spokesperson.
The incident has sparked widespread debate across Africa, with fans and analysts alike questioning whether CAF needs to reinforce its rules and requirements for hosting nations. The organization is expected to undertake a review of its regulations on venue and travel logistics to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
With CAF taking a firm stand on this incident, it is hoped that the decision will serve as a precedent, ensuring that all member nations treat each other with respect and maintain the dignity of the beautiful game across the continent.