President Bola Tinubu has welcomed Confederation of African Football investigations into the ordeal suffered by the Super Eagles as they landed in Libya for their African Cup of Nations qualifier against the Mediterranean Knights.
Tinubu who was speaking through his special adviser on information and strategy Mr. Bayo Onanugu condemned the Libyan action of diverting the Super Eagles plane to another airport and leaving the team there without food for 15 hours after they arrived on Sunday afternoon.
“President Tinubu expects the Disciplinary Board of the Confederation of African Football to conduct a thorough investigation and recommend appropriate action against those who wilfully violated the organisation’s Statutes and Regulations.
“The President commends the proactive coordination between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Federal Ministry of Sports Development in addressing the unfortunate episode and ensuring the safe return of our players,” said a statement signed by Mr. Onanuga
“President Tinubu applauds the players for keeping their spirit alive despite the excruciating ordeal in Libya.
“The Nigerian leader recognises football’s unifying power in bringing nations and people together and views the treatment of our citizens as unsportsmanlike and inhumane, a stark contrast to the spirit of the game he deeply appreciates.
“He fervently calls on all lovers of the round-leather game and administrators to unite and work collaboratively to prevent and overcome such incidents in the future.”
The Super Eagles boycotted the game refueled their private jet and returned back Monday evening.