Scandal in Africa: Nigeria refuses to play against its rival due to inhuman and unfair treatment

The Nigerian national football team has denounced a serious incident in Libya that has led the team to refuse to play the African Cup of Nations qualifying match.

According to statements by Nigerian captain Willian Troost-Ekong, the team was subjected to inhumane treatment upon arrival in Libya. The flight carrying the delegation was diverted from its original route and, upon landing, the players were abandoned for more than 12 hours in an airport without access to food, drinks, or communication.

"They changed the original destination of our flight once it began its descent towards Libya due to an instruction from their government. When we landed, they left us abandoned for 12 hours in an airport without provisions," denounced Troost-Ekong.

The situation worsened when the Tunisian pilot of the plane reported that, while he had access to lodging in nearby hotels, no member of the Nigerian delegation was allowed entry. "Our pilot, who is Tunisian, told us that he was accepted in all nearby hotels, although no member of our delegation was. Are we still talking about international football?" questioned the captain.

Faced with a lack of guarantees and inhumane conditions, the Nigerian team unanimously decided not to play the match. "They offered us to travel by road in a place that is not safe. As a team, we respect ourselves and under these conditions we will not play," stated Troost-Ekong.

Cross-accusations and possible reprisals

According to various versions, this incident could be a form of retaliation for a similar event that occurred days earlier, when the Libyan team allegedly experienced delays in their arrival in Nigeria. However, this information has not yet been officially confirmed.

Nigeria's decision not to play has caused a great stir in the world of football and has highlighted the political and sporting tensions between the two countries. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has yet to comment on the matter, but is expected to take action and clarify what happened.

This incident highlights the importance of guaranteeing the safety and well-being of athletes, as well as the need for federations and governments to work together to prevent situations like this that tarnish the image of African football.