4 Key Points As Peter Obi Speaks on Super Eagles’ Hostage Ordeal in Libya

4 Key Points As Peter Obi Speaks on Super Eagles’ Hostage Ordeal in Libya

  • Former Presidential aspirant Governor Peter Obi has shared his thoughts on Super Eagles' ordeal in Libya
  • The Nigerian national team were held hostage for about 16 hours at Al Abraq International Airport
  • William Troost-Ekong voiced the players' concerns as they abandoned the match and returned home

Former Presidential aspirant Governor Peter Obi has shared his thoughts on the ordeal of the Super Eagles in Libya, an incident which attracted global attention.

The team were held hostage by Libyan authorities for about 16 hours at Al Abraq International Airport when they arrived to honour the AFCON 2025 qualifier second leg match.

Super Eagles spent about 16 hours under hostage at Al Abraq International Airport in Libya.
Al Abraq International Airport where the Super Eagles of Nigeria were held hostage. Photo from @official_micolo.
Source: Twitter

Obi, former Anambra State Governor, published a statement on his official X account, condemning the incident and applauding the players for their patriotism.

Read also

Date set for CAF’s verdict after Super Eagles' hostage ordeal in Libya, reports

Briefly News analyses the four key points from Obi’s statement.

Four key points from Obi's statement

1. Sympathises with the Super Eagles

The Labour Party presidential aspirant expressed sympathy for the Super Eagles' ordeal in Libya while en route to the AFCON qualifier, an incident for which the North Africans have been condemned globally.

2. Condemns Libya's mistreatment

He further stressed the inhumane treatment received by the team at a remote Libyan airport. He described it as deeply regrettable and sided with the team's decision not to honour the match.

3. Commends the players’ patriotism

Obi applauded the Super Eagles players for their patriotism and patience, which they displayed to remain in high spirits during their ordeal. He further charged them to stay determined and not be discouraged by the incident.

4. Calls for unity and quality leadership

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Video: Tunisian pilot exposes Libya FA, details truth about Super Eagles' airport saga

Like in many of his statements, the former governor reiterated to Nigerians to strive for respect and dignity. He added that the country should remain united in calling for quality leadership as they rallied around the team during their ordeal in Libya.

CAF acknowledged NFF's official complaint and has sent the case to its ethics and disciplinary committee, with a verdict expected soon.

Key Points From NFF’s Official Statement

Briefly News reported that the Super Eagles of Nigeria returned to the country safely yesterday evening after a 16-hour ordeal at the Al Abaq International Airport in Libya.

The team was held hostage at the airport by Libyan authorities, having initially dangerously redirected their flight to an airport 150 miles away from the planned destination

Source: Legit.ng

Authors:
Viginia Akinyi avatar

Viginia Akinyi (sports editor) Viginia Akinyi is the current import editor at Briefly News. She holds a B.Sc. in Communication and Public Relations from Moi University and has previously worked with Lolwe TV, Daily Nation Eldoret Bureau and SportsBrief.com. Email: viginia.akinyi@briefly.co.za

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