4 Key Points As Peter Obi Speaks on Super Eagles’ Hostage Ordeal in Libya

4 Key Points As Peter Obi Speaks on Super Eagles’ Hostage Ordeal in Libya

  • Former Presidential aspirant Governor Peter Obi has shared his thoughts on Super Eagles' ordeal in Libya
  • The Nigerian national team were held hostage for about 16 hours at Al Abraq International Airport
  • William Troost-Ekong voiced the players' concerns as they abandoned the match and returned home

Former Presidential aspirant Governor Peter Obi has shared his thoughts on the ordeal of the Super Eagles in Libya, an incident which attracted global attention.

The team were held hostage by Libyan authorities for about 16 hours at Al Abraq International Airport when they arrived to honour the AFCON 2025 qualifier second leg match.

Super Eagles spent about 16 hours under hostage at Al Abraq International Airport in Libya.
Al Abraq International Airport where the Super Eagles of Nigeria were held hostage. Photo from @official_micolo.
Source: Twitter

Obi, former Anambra State Governor, published a statement on his official X account, condemning the incident and applauding the players for their patriotism.

Legit.ng analyses the four key points from Obi’s statement.

Read also

Super Eagles players spotted celebrating in Abuja after surviving Libya airport saga: video

Four key points from Obi's statement

1. Sympathises with the Super Eagles

The Labour Party presidential aspirant expressed sympathy for the Super Eagles' ordeal in Libya while en route to the AFCON qualifier, an incident for which the North Africans have been condemned globally.

2. Condemns Libya's mistreatment

He further stressed the inhumane treatment received by the team at a remote Libyan airport. He described it as deeply regrettable and sided with the team's decision not to honour the match.

3. Commends the players’ patriotism

Obi applauded the Super Eagles players for their patriotism and patience, which they displayed to remain in high spirits during their ordeal. He further charged them to stay determined and not be discouraged by the incident.

4. Calls for unity and quality leadership

Like in many of his statements, the former governor reiterated to Nigerians to strive for respect and dignity. He added that the country should remain united in calling for quality leadership as they rallied around the team during their ordeal in Libya.

Read also

6 key points from NFF's official statement detailing Super Eagles experience in Libya

CAF acknowledged NFF's official complaint and has sent the case to its ethics and disciplinary committee, with a verdict expected soon.

Libya FF threatens legal action

Legit.ng reported that Libya FA threatened legal action against the Nigerian Football Federation after they failed to play the scheduled AFCON 2025 qualifier match.

The statement hinted that the Libyans acted in retaliation for their experience in Nigeria last week, refusing to take responsibility but blaming the Nigerian authorities.

PAY ATTENTION: Сheck out news that is picked exactly for YOU ➡️ find the “Recommended for you” block on the home page and enjoy!

Source: Legit.ng

Authors:
Elijah Odetokun avatar

Elijah Odetokun (Sports Editor) Elijah Odetokun is a Nigerian sports editor at Legit NG. He has four years of working experience having previously worked at Daily Times Nigeria (August 2020 - September 2020), OmaSports (December 2020 - June 2021), El Futbolero (July 2021; September 2021- November 2021), and Sports Brief (November 2022 - July 2024). He is a press conference and interview specialist and has attended trainings held by Reuters, AIPS, and FIJ. He holds a Bachelor of Agriculture (2021) from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. Reach me via elijah.odetokun@sportsbrief.com