President TINUBU reacts to Super Eagles ordeal in Libya

Tuesday, October 15, 2024 -President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on the Disciplinary Board of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to conduct a thorough investigation and recommend appropriate action over the treatment meted out to the Super Eagles in Libya.

According to a statement on Monday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu warmly welcomes the safe return of the players.

The Nigerian leader described the happening in Libya as unsportsmanlike and inhumane and called for collaborative efforts to prevent a future occurrence.

While expecting the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to conduct a thorough investigation and recommend appropriate action against those who violated the rules of sports engagement as enshrined in the organisation’s Statutes and Regulations, President Tinubu commended the coordination between the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Federal Ministry of Sports Development in handling the debacle.

The full statement reads: “President Bola Tinubu, deeply moved by the inhuman treatment endured by the Super Eagles of Nigeria at a Libyan airport, warmly welcomes their safe return to Nigeria.

“The harrowing experience of the national football team at the hands of their hosts and the Libyan authorities prompted the Nigerian Football Federation to withdraw the Super Eagles from the scheduled match on Tuesday.

“President Tinubu expects the Disciplinary Board of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to conduct a thorough investigation and recommend appropriate action against those who wilfully violated the organisation’s Statutes and Regulations.

“The President commends 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.

“President Tinubu applauds the players for keeping their spirit alive despite the excruciating ordeal in Libya.

“The Nigerian leader recognises football’s unifying power in bringing nations and people together and views the treatment of our citizens as unsportsmanlike and inhumane, a stark contrast to the spirit of the game he deeply appreciates.

“He fervently calls on all lovers of the round-leather game and administrators to unite and work collaboratively to prevent and overcome such incidents in the future.”