The drama surrounding the Nigerian team continued throughout Monday after the transport to Tuesday’s African Cup of Nations qualifier did not end as expected.
After the charter plane with, among others, Premier League stars Alex Iwobi, Taiwo Awoniyi and Wilfred Ndidi landed at a completely different airport than originally planned, the players are said to have been stranded without a phone connection, food or drink.
Monday evening informs The Confederation of African Football (CAF) that it takes very seriously what is described as a disturbing and unacceptable experience for the Nigerian team.
– The matter has been referred to CAF’s disciplinary committee for investigation, and appropriate measures will be taken against those who have breached CAF’s statutes and regulations, it is further stated.
– Everything to psyche us out
In a lengthy post in the Nigerian Football Association’s media channels, national team captain William Troost-Ekong claims that the plane carrying the players was diverted by the Libyan authorities.
The airport they landed at is 220 kilometers away from their original destination. The Nigeria players are said to have refused to be transported further by bus as a result of the area being perceived as too dangerous.
– They have locked the airport gates and left us without a telephone connection, food or drink. Everything to psyche us out, writes Troost-Ekong.
He further adds that the players have jointly decided that it will not be relevant to play Tuesday’s planned international match.
The Nigerian Football Association informs the AFP news agency that the players will be brought home on Monday evening as a result of the “inhumane treatment” they have been subjected to.
– The players have decided not to play the match, and the NFF (Nigerian football federation) is making plans to fly the team back home, says communications director Ademola Olajire.
Denies charges
The Nigerian embassy in Libya has allegedly been unable to intervene in the matter. The reason is said to be that it needs permission from the Libyan government.
The Libyan Football Association, for its part, denies that it has been involved in any kind of inappropriate action, stating that it has the “greatest respect” for Nigeria.
– There is no basis for accusing the Libyan security forces or the Libyan Football Association of deliberately orchestrating this incident, says a statement reproduced by AFP.
– Such actions are contrary to our values and principles. We strongly reject all claims that suggest sabotage in this situation, the Libyans write further.
Former Glimt player in the drama
Former Bodø/Glimt player and current Leverkusen star Victor Boniface is among the Nigerians who have been stranded. He has also shared his frustration online.
– Have been at the airport for almost 13 hours without food, wifi or anywhere to sleep. Africa, we can do better, Boniface wrote on X on Monday morning.
Three hours later, he came up with another update.
– Help me call my grandmother and tell her that her grandson is okay. No, this is sick, it read.
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