Nigeria's Boycott of Libya Match Sparks Outcry

Nigeria's national football team has decided to boycott their away match in Libya following what they describe as 'inhumane treatment' at Al Abraq airport. Players, including notable figures such as Victor Boniface and Frank Onyeka, were reportedly detained for over 10 hours without adequate provisions. The incident has prompted the Nigerian team to return home immediately, citing security concerns and an unsafe environment in Libya, which is considered a high-risk country.

Team captain William Troost-Ekong voiced strong apprehensions about the security of a lengthy bus journey from Al Abraq to Benina. The Nigerian Football Federation has lodged a formal complaint with the African Football Confederation (CAF), seeking accountability and highlighting the ordeal faced by the delegation. The situation has ignited calls from various quarters, including Bayer Leverkusen and former African Footballer of the Year, Victor Ikpeba, for sanctions against Libya.

Nigeria had previously secured a 1-0 victory in the first leg of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifiers and currently leads Group D. However, the boycott raises questions about the potential forfeiture of the match. This incident underscores the broader issues of security and fairness in international sports events, with both Nigerian and Libyan authorities now under scrutiny. The incident has drawn attention to the treatment of visiting teams and the need for improved protocols to ensure player safety during international competitions.