Reports have surfaced of widespread arrests and fines targeting Nigerian nationals in Libya, linked to a recent decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The controversy began when the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) filed a complaint over the Super Eagles' prolonged detention at Al-Abraq Airport in Libya, where the team was held for more than 20 hours ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya’s Mediterranean Knights.
On October 26, CAF’s disciplinary committee responded by awarding the Super Eagles three points and three goals for the abandoned match. The Libyan Football Federation (LFF) was also fined $50,000, with 60 days to comply. LFF President Nasser Al-Suwai’I criticized the ruling, calling it "unjust and malicious" and alleging that the NFF’s influence within CAF swayed the outcome.
Following the ruling, Nigerian community leaders in Libya report a surge in arrests of Nigerians, sparking fear and outrage. President of the Nigerian community in Libya, Peter Omoregbie, expressed deep concern, stating, "They are arresting innocent people without regard for their passports or residence permits. This doesn’t happen in other countries."
Omoregbie noted growing fear within the Nigerian community as social media posts from Libyan journalists and bloggers hinted that the fines might be enforced by targeting Nigerians through mass arrests. "Social media commentary suggests that Nigeria will be made to pay the $50,000 fine through these detentions," he said, adding that videos circulating online show Nigerians in Tedora being detained, regardless of legal status.
With fear spreading and community leaders feeling helpless, the Nigerian community in Libya is now urging international organizations to step in, as the situation continues to escalate. Omoregbie emphasized that even the Nigerian Embassy faces limitations, calling for swift action to protect Nigerians facing this alarming situation.
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