President Tinubu Reacts to Inhumane Treatment of Super Eagles in Libya

President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep concern over the inhumane treatment faced by the Super Eagles at a Libyan airport, following their return to Nigeria. The Nigerian national football team was subjected to distressing conditions by Libyan authorities, leading the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) to withdraw the team from their scheduled match.

In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu strongly condemned the treatment of the team, calling it “unsportsmanlike and inhumane.” He added, “The experience endured by our Super Eagles is a stark contrast to the spirit of the game, which I deeply appreciate as a force that unites nations and people.”

The President also expressed relief at the safe return of the players, praising their resilience in the face of adversity. “I commend our Super Eagles for keeping their spirits alive despite the excruciating ordeal they went through in Libya,” Tinubu said. He highlighted that such situations should not occur in international sports, which are meant to promote unity and respect among countries.

The President’s statement also called on the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to take swift action. He demanded a full investigation into the incident, urging CAF’s Disciplinary Board to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. “I expect the Disciplinary Board of CAF to conduct a thorough investigation and recommend appropriate action against those who wilfully violated the organization’s statutes and regulations,” the President declared.

Tinubu also acknowledged the quick and effective intervention of Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Federal Ministry of Sports Development. “I commend the proactive coordination between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Federal Ministry of Sports Development in addressing the unfortunate episode and ensuring the safe return of our players,” he said.

In conclusion, President Tinubu urged the football community and administrators to come together to prevent similar incidents in the future. “I fervently call on all lovers of the round-leather game and administrators to unite and work collaboratively to prevent and overcome such incidents,” he emphasized.

The footballing world now awaits the outcome of the CAF investigation, as Nigeria calls for justice and better protections for athletes on the international stage.