CAF president, Motsepe, calls for respect amid Nigeria-Libya controversy

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) President, Patrice Motsepe, has urged nations across the continent to treat visiting teams with respect and dignity.

Motsepe made this call amid investigations into the incident involving Nigeria’s Super Eagles, who were detained for hours at a Libyan airport after their flight was diverted. He stressed that this matter is currently under investigation.

Speaking on Tuesday at a press conference following the 46th Ordinary General Assembly in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Motsepe addressed the challenging conditions faced by the Nigerian national team during their trip to Libya, which raised serious concerns about player safety and fair treatment.

Recall that Nigeria travelled to Libya for their crucial African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier, where they encountered several challenges, including the redirection of their flight, an 18-hour delay at the airport, and logistical complications that affected the team’s preparation.

CAF has launched a probe into the incident, with findings expected to be released soon. Motsepe reiterated that the investigation is ongoing and appropriate action will be taken.

He said that CAF will not tolerate any lack of sportsmanship.

He said, “It is the lack of sportsmanship that has overtaken and taken effect. I just want to repeat that we are proud of those nations that treat visiting teams and visiting football clubs with the respect and dignity that they deserve, and who also treat them in the same way they want to be treated when they visit those countries.

“So I want to repeat that we are reviewing those laws, and we want to emphasise sportsmanship.

“When a national team or football club visits, treat them with the dignity and respect they deserve, and if there are violations of those rules, then we will take action.”