- Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, praised the Super Eagles for their patriotism, patience, and resilience despite their unfair treatment in Libya.
- Nigerian players and officials were stranded at Libyan airport for hours without food or internet access, leading to the Super Eagles returning to Nigeria and refusing to proceed with the match.
- Peter Obi, in a statement on his X handle, urged the players not to be discouraged by their hardships in North Africa.
Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party for 2023, has commended the Super Eagles for their display of patriotism, patience, and resilience in light of the unjust treatment they faced in Libya.
It is important to note that on Sunday, Nigerian players and officials were left stranded for several hours at a Libyan airport, lacking access to food and internet services while preparing for their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against the Mediterranean Knights. In light of the inadequate conditions, the Super Eagles opted to return to Nigeria, choosing not to proceed with the match.
In a statement posted on his X account on Thursday morning, Peter Obi urged the players to remain undeterred by their challenging experience in the North African nation.
The former Governor of Anambra State emphasized that this unfortunate incident should motivate Nigerians to strive for greater respect and dignity for the country.
His statement reads: “Like every other patriotic Nigerian, I sincerely sympathize with our dear Super Eagles over their ordeal in Libya on their way to play the Morocco 2025 AFCON Qualifier return leg match, which was later delisted by CAF following the players’ decision not to play the match.
“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.
“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.
“I appeal to them not to allow this sad experience dampen their zeal or break their spirit.
“On the other hand, it should recharge their determination to fight to win the match whenever 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.”
