AFCON: CAF Investigates Nigeria-Libya Incident, Says President Motsepe

Sports

AFCON: CAF Investigates Nigeria-Libya Incident, Says President Motsepe

Reported by Ibadan Media

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) president, Patrice Motsepe, has confirmed that a thorough investigation is underway concerning the controversy surrounding Nigeria’s AFCON qualifier against Libya.

Motsepe emphasized that the confederation will not tolerate unsportsmanlike behavior in African football.

Speaking at a press conference following the 46th Ordinary General Assembly in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the CAF president addressed the challenges faced by the Nigerian national team during their trip to Libya, which raised concerns about player safety and fair treatment.

Nigeria's trip to Libya for the crucial AFCON qualifier was marred by several issues, including a redirection of their flight, an 18-hour delay at the airport, and logistical complications, all of which affected the team's preparations.

Team captain Troost Ekong and star player Victor Osimhen expressed their frustration over the situation, with Super Eagles defender Kenneth Omeruo criticizing the decision to play in Libya, given the ongoing instability in the country.

Although Motsepe did not directly address the specifics of the Nigeria-Libya situation, he confirmed that the incident is being investigated.

“When the Nigerian national team experienced difficulties in Libya, I will not comment directly as a proper investigation is ongoing. However, I want to highlight that CAF will not tolerate these kinds of incidents, as they have been happening for too long,” Motsepe stated.

He also pointed out that visiting teams in African football have frequently faced poor treatment.

“Many stories have surfaced about national teams or clubs arriving in a country only to spend hours at the airport, dealing with unnecessary delays over non-existent documentation,” he added.

Motsepe underscored the need to treat visiting teams with respect and dignity, emphasizing fairness in competition.

“We are proud of the nations that treat visiting teams with the respect and dignity they deserve. However, a lack of sportsmanship has persisted, and we haven’t taken effective action. This will change,” he said.

CAF is currently reviewing its regulations and will implement stricter measures to prevent future incidents like the one Nigeria faced in Libya.

“If any violations occur, we will take action. Sportsmanship is a core value in African football, and it must be upheld,” Motsepe concluded.