The Libya Football Federation, LFF, has responded to allegations of foul play and sabotage surrounding the Nigerian national team’s 15-hour stranding at Al Abraq Airport.
In a statement released on Monday, the LFF attributed the incident to routine air traffic control protocols, security checks, and logistical challenges.
These factors, the LFF explained, are standard procedures that can cause delays or rerouting in international air travel.
The federation emphasized that such incidents are not uncommon and can happen to any team.
The LFF also drew parallels with a similar experience faced by their own team during a visit to Uyo, Nigeria, stressing that they did not make public accusations nor question the integrity of the Nigerian authorities
The statement reads: “We are deeply concerned about the recent reports surrounding the diversion of the Nigerian national team’s flight ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Libya.
“While we regret any inconvenience caused, it is essential to note that such incidents can occur due to routine air traffic control protocols, security checks, or logistical challenges that affect international air travel.
“These are standard procedures at airports worldwide, and delays or rerouting, though unfortunate, are not uncommon.
“We have the utmost respect for our Nigerian counterparts and want to reassure them that the diversion of their flight was not intentional.
“There are no grounds to accuse the Libyan security teams or the Libyan Football Federation of deliberately orchestrating this incident. Such actions are inconsistent with our values and principles.
“We firmly reject any claims that suggest foul play or sabotage in this situation. It is important to highlight that just last week, our own national team faced significant challenges upon our arrival in Nigeria for the third match of the Africa Cup of Nations qualification.
“Despite the difficulties we encountered, we did not make public accusations nor question the integrity of the Nigerian authorities. Football, in its essence, unites nations, and we are committed to upholding the spirit of fairness and mutual respect both on and off the field.”
