Nigerians in Libya Face Mass Arrests Following CAF Ruling on Super Eagles Incident

Nigerians in Libya Face Mass Arrests Following CAF Ruling on Super Eagles Incident

In the wake of the Confederation of African Football‘s (CAF) decision regarding the treatment of the Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, during their recent trip to Libya, there have been reports of mass arrests and fines imposed on Nigerians residing in the country.

The controversy began when the Super Eagles were held at Al-Abraq Airport for over 20 hours upon their arrival for a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

Instead of landing at Benghazi Airport, where they were scheduled to play, the flight was diverted on instructions from Libyan authorities.

This incident led the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to withdraw the team from the match and file a formal complaint with CAF.

On October 26, CAF’s disciplinary committee ruled in favor of Nigeria, awarding the Super Eagles three points and three goals for the abandoned match.

The Libyan Football Federation (LFF) was found in violation of multiple regulations and was fined $50,000, which must be paid within 60 days.

In response to this ruling, a Libyan news blog called for the arrest of Nigerians working in Libya without legal documentation, suggesting they should pay a $500 fine.

The post gained traction, and many Libyan media outlets echoed similar sentiments, exacerbating tensions against the Nigerian community.

Reports from the ground indicate that arrests began shortly after the CAF announcement, particularly in areas like Tedora and Tripoli.

Nigerian residents have reported being apprehended regardless of their legal status, and community leaders have expressed deep concern over the situation.

Adenaike Emmanuel, a Nigerian living in Tripoli, stated, “They have already started… Libyans don’t hide their feelings. They believe that by doing this, they are getting their revenge.”

Peter Omoregbie, president of the Nigerian community in Libya, confirmed that authorities are indiscriminately arresting people, including those with valid residence permits.

The situation has become dire, with other Nigerians warning of increased tensions and arrests. Omo Oba Legba shared a Facebook video expressing fear for his safety, urging the Nigerian government to intervene.

In response to the rising hostilities, Ahmed Hamza, chairman of Libya’s National Institution for Human Rights, cautioned against retaliatory actions targeting Nigerian workers, emphasizing that such measures could lead to broader consequences.

Both the Libyan and Nigerian embassies have been contacted for comment, but responses have been slow.

Former Nigerian ambassador Ogbole Amedu-Ode has called for an investigation into the arrests and suggested that Nigeria should report Libya to the African Union if evidence of mistreatment is gathered.

As the situation unfolds, members of the Nigerian community in Libya are urged to maintain a low profile and consider their safety amidst escalating tensions.