Amid rising tensions, Nigerian nationals in Libya are reportedly facing mass arrests following a Confederation of African Football (CAF) ruling that penalised Libya for mistreating Nigeria’s Super Eagles football team.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) had filed a complaint after the Super Eagles were held for over 20 hours at Al-Abraq Airport before their scheduled match in Libya.
In response, CAF awarded Nigeria three points and fined the Libyan Football Federation (LFF) $50,000 for violating regulations.
The LFF called the decision “unjust,” vowing to appeal.
Reports from Libyan news outlets have shown escalating anti-Nigerian sentiments, with some urging the government to impose fines on Nigerians working without permits.
A Nigerian in Tripoli confirmed arrests had already started, claiming that individuals with legal documentation were also being detained.
Peter Omoregbie, leader of the Nigerian community in Libya, and others have called for international intervention.
Libya’s Human Rights Institution warned against targeting Nigerians, cautioning against incitement by local media.
Meanwhile, Nigerian officials, including ex-ambassador Ogbole Amedu-Ode, urged the government to escalate the matter to the African Union.
The Nigerian government and embassies are yet to issue an official response.
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