By Abbanobi Eku OnyekachiAbuja
Senator Godswill Akpabio, the President of the Senate, has strongly condemned the ill-treatment of Nigeria’s Super Eagles and its delegation in Libya during the 2025 African Cup of Nations qualifier. He described the incident as a, “stark reminder of the disregard for human dignity and the lack of respect for international norms.”
Akpabio’s statement, released through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, emphasized that the reported mistreatment is unacceptable and breaches the principles of fair play and sportsmanship in international football competitions.
The Senate President has also declared his solidarity with the Super Eagles, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and Nigerian football fans. In fact, the Federal Government has taken action, summoning Libya’s Chargé d’Affaires to discuss the hostile reception given to the team by the Libya Football Federation.
This incident highlights the need for respect and fair play in international sports, and it’s good to see the Nigerian government taking a strong stance against such treatment.
Similarly, Senator Barau I Jibrin, Deputy President of the Senate also condemned the ill-treatment, even as he emphasized that such treatment contradicts the spirit of sports, which aims to promote unity, competition, and brotherhood among nations.
In his remarks during Tuesday’s plenary, Senator Jibrin expressed gratitude to Senator Sulaiman Abdulrahman Kawu Sumaila, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, for bringing the matter to the floor under Personal Explanation. He praised Senator Sumaila’s approach, stating that it allows for a chance to address the issue without escalating into a diplomatic row.
Senator Jibrin urged Libyan authorities to apologize to the Nigerian government and the Super Eagles for their unacceptable treatment. He highlighted Nigeria’s leadership in African diplomacy and friendship, emphasizing the importance of resolving the issue amicably.
This incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with Nigeria’s Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, also denouncing the mistreatment. The call for an apology and resolution reflects the Nigerian government’s commitment to protecting its citizens and promoting positive international relations.
