According to reports, the Confederation of African Football has launched an investigation into Super Eagles’ ordeal in Libya, and Sports Buddy have taken a look at potential sanctions that might follow, based on the federation’s disciplinary code.
The Nigerian contingent was left stranded for over 20 hours at the Al Abraq airport in Bayda, without proper hospitality, leaving the visitors to boycott the African Cup of Nations Qualifiers game scheduled for Tuesday against Libya.
Nigeria have lodged complaints about the hostile treatment they received from the North Africans, tagging it a ‘hostage situation’ as they were subjected to unfavourable conditions, including restricted movement, no food, no water, no WIFI, and lack of proper transportation.
The Libyan Federation has also released a counter statement, giving reasons for Nigeria’s difficulties at the airport and also claiming they endured similar treatment when they travelled for the first leg of this tie in UYO.
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Depending on the investigation’s findings, CAF’s Disciplinary Code could result in various outcomes for both Libya and Nigeria, involving:
Fines and Financial Penalties
CAF often issues fines for breaking protocol or displaying unsporting behaviour. In Libya’s case, they could be fined if found guilty of mishandling the Nigerian team’s arrival.
Similar past offences have led to fines of up to $10,000.
Failing to properly receive the Super Eagles could be classified as inadequate hosting, which might result in sanctions.
Security-Related Penalties
Libya could also face penalties for issues surrounding airport security and logistics for the Nigerian team.
CAF places a high priority on providing secure and welcoming conditions for visiting teams.
If Libya is found to have jeopardised the Super Eagles’ safety, they could face further fines, or CAF might even mandate that future matches in Libya take place behind closed doors.
Reprimands and warnings
CAF could issue a formal warning or reprimand if Libya’s actions are deemed less serious but still in violation of the rules.
Nigeria could also face a warning if their conduct was seen as non-compliant with CAF’s procedural standards.
As CAF assesses the situation, its decision could set a precedent for how visiting teams are treated going forward, ensuring fairness and safety across the board.
