AFCON Qualifier: Obi Sympathises With Super Eagles Over Libyan Airport Experience

The Labour Party candidate for the 2023 presidential election, Peter Obi has sympathised with the Nigerian national team for their ugly experience at the Libyan airport on their way to play the Morocco 2025 AFCON Qualifier return leg match.

Recall that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) camp had on Sunday reported that the aircraft conveying the Nigerian footballers to Benghazi was diverted to Al Abraq, a city more than three hours drive from Benghazi just an hour before landing.

Following the Libyan authorities’ failure to provide transportation for the Super Eagles to get to their destination, the NFF made an alternative plan to return home.

The former governor, while showing empathy for the sad experience, noted that the team’s decision to abandon the game and return home was justified given the harsh treatment they had received on arrival at the local airport.

“The neglect and abandonment they and their officials suffered at a remote Libyan airport is highly regrettable and justifies their alternative decision of returning home,” the post partly read.

He also commended the national players for choosing the path of patriotism and calmness as the Confederation of African Football (CAF)properly investigated the situation while also urging them to remain committed to making the country proud despite what they had just experienced.

“While we await the outcome of an investigation ordered by CAF, I wish to use this opportunity to commend the players for their patriotism, patience, and forbearance in the face of the unfair treatment by our Libyan brothers,” Obi tweeted.

However, he called on the players to use the opportunity to work hard to win the match when it takes place as it would be worth celebrating amidst the challenges Nigerians are faced with and equally bring respect, dignity and unity to the nation.

“I appeal to them not to allow this sad experience to dampen their zeal or break their spirit.

“On the other hand, it should recharge their determination to fight to win the match whatever it takes place, to qualify for the Morocco 2025 AFCON, and to win the championship.

“In times like this, when Nigerians are left dejected by the sorry state of affairs in the country, every victory by the Super Eagles would not only serve to unite the country but also give Nigerians something to celebrate.

“The sad experience of our national team in Libya should encourage all of us to work hard to bring more respect and dignity to our nation.

“With the right leadership in place, Nigeria surely will rise again. Indeed, a new Nigeria is POssible,” the post read.