Monday, October 14, 2024

Libyan Football Federation President Abdelhakim Al-Shalmani Resigns After Super Eagles Airport Incident

 

Abdelhakim Al-Shalmani, President of the Libyan Football Federation, has officially resigned following the controversy surrounding the detention of Nigeria's Super Eagles at a Libyan airport. Al-Shalmani announced his decision during a regular meeting of the Federation’s General Assembly.

According to The Libya Observer, an online newspaper based in Tripoli, Al-Shalmani explained his reasons in a formal statement, saying, "I do not want to be part of the failure in Libyan sports." He acknowledged the difficulties faced by Libyan sports in recent times and expressed his gratitude to the General Assembly members, stating, "I forgive everyone from all segments of the sports sector."

Al-Shalmani’s resignation follows accusations made by the Nigerian Super Eagles, who claimed they were subjected to "inhumane treatment" after their flight was diverted to Al Abraq Airport, over two hours from their intended destination, for a 2025 AFCON qualifier. The team was left stranded for several hours, a situation that was brought to light by Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong.

In response, the Libyan Football Federation clarified that the diversion was not intentional but due to standard air traffic control protocols. They also noted that Libya's national team had encountered significant challenges during their visit to Nigeria for the first leg of the AFCON qualifiers, without making public complaints or questioning Nigerian authorities.

Al-Shalmani’s resignation signals his desire to distance himself from the ongoing sports difficulties in Libya and his wish to preserve his long-standing reputation in international football federations.

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