Libya Saga: President Tinubu commends Eagles, demands justice from CAF

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has welcomed safe return of the Super Eagles back to Nigeria following the Libya airport nightmare where they were stranded for over 16 hours.

In a statement by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President, Information & Strategy, Tinubu who was deeply moved by the inhuman treatment welcomed the team and demanded a swift justice to their treatment

Recall that 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” it reads in part.

The President also commended 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 and applauded the players for keeping their spirit alive despite the excruciating ordeal in Libya.

While recognizing football’s unifying power in bringing nations and people together, he viewed the treatment of the Nigeria contingent as unsportsmanlike and inhumane, saying it’s a stark contrast to the spirit of the game he deeply appreciates.

The President however 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.