Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen has condemned the mistreatment of the Nigerian national team, who have been stranded at a Libyan airport without access to food, water, or basic facilities for over 12 hours.
Although Osimhen missed the recent AFCON qualifier due to injury, the reigning African Footballer of the Year expressed his frustration over the ordeal.
The Super Eagles defeated Libya 1-0 in Uyo on Friday, with the return leg scheduled for Tuesday, October 11.
However, their arrival in Libya took an unexpected turn when their flight was diverted from its original destination on Sunday.
Upon landing, the Nigerian delegation, including players and staff, found themselves locked inside the airport, with no access to basic amenities.
According to reports, the airport gates were shut, preventing the team from leaving.
Reacting to the situation, Osimhen voiced his support for the team, stating:
“I am disappointed by the unfair treatment my brothers and coaches have been facing in the Libya airport since last night. Actions like this go against the spirit of sportsmanship. My support is with my team, and I know they’ll stay strong despite these obstacles.
“I call on CAF and other football bodies to intervene, as my teammates and officials are still stranded at the airport in Libya. This is uncalled for and inhumane. We stand together, stronger than ever.”
In a further development, team captain William Troost-Ekong revealed that the Super Eagles are considering forfeiting the match, stating they are not in the right condition to compete under such circumstances.
CAF’s intervention is now urgently needed to resolve the crisis and ensure the team’s safety and fair treatment.