FG Denies Reports Of Mass Arrest Of Nigerians By Libyan Government

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) recently ruled in favor of Nigeria, prompting the Federal Government to deny reports of widespread arrests and harassment of Nigerians living in Libya.

In addition to awarding the Nigerian Super Eagles some points, the CAF fined Libya $50,000 for mistreating the Nigerian team during a Nations Cup qualifying match.

Following the ruling, reports emerged that Nigerians were being subjected to various forms of harassment in Libya. Some Libyan news platforms released publications asking their government to increase the taxes of Nigerians in order for them to pay for the fine imposed by CAF on the Libyan football team. Some Nigerians residing in Libya also claimed that they were being arrested.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, however, stated that Nigerians are safe in Libya and reiterated the government’s determination to keep its citizens safe there.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to convey that as of the time of making this statement, Nigerians in Libya are going about their daily activities, devoid of any form of harassment by Libyan authorities, following the verdict of the Confederation of African Football which indicted the Libyan Football Association for their ill-treatment of the Nigerian team and officials while in Libya for a Nations Cup Qualifying Match.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to reiterate that the well-being of Nigerian citizens anywhere in the world is a top priority of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and will continue to strive to safeguard it at all times,” the statement read.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli