Leicester City’s Wilfred Ndidi and fellow Nigerian players are stranded at a Libyan airport after their flight was redirected, leading them to feel as if they are being held hostage. The team has been without food and water for over 12 hours and has announced a boycott of their upcoming match against Libya, alleging governmental obstruction. The players have made a call for intervention from the Nigerian government, demanding a resolution to their challenging circumstances.
Wilfred Ndidi, a prominent player for Leicester City and a member of the Nigerian national team, has declared that he and his teammates are currently stranded at an airport in Libya, feeling as though they are being held hostage. This predicament arose after their flight, originally destined for Benghazi to participate in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya, was diverted to Al-Abraq airport, which is not operational for their needs and is situated approximately four hours from their intended location. The Super Eagles players have reported being without adequate provisions, enduring a lack of food and water for more than 12 hours. There are allegations from the players suggesting that the Libyan government may be attempting to undermine their capability to participate in the match, particularly following claims of “hostile treatment” during the recent encounter with Libya. Consequently, the Nigerian team has publicly announced their intention to boycott the upcoming fixture, citing being confined within the airport terminal and denied any chance to arrange alternative travel plans. Ndidi expressed his frustration on social media, indicating, “This is not football. Very embarrassing. Hostage to a national team. Disgrace.” Additionally, Victor Boniface, a forward with Bayer Leverkusen, articulated the team’s plight in a tweet: “Been at the airport for almost 13 hours no food no wifi nowhere to sleep African we can do better.” Former Watford defender William Troost-Ekong, who currently plays in Saudi Arabia, provided an extensive account of their situation on X. He described enduring over 12 hours at an abandoned airport due to the Libyan government’s sudden revocation of their landing approval in Benghazi. He lamented the lack of basic necessities, stating, “They’ve locked the airport gates and left us without phone connection, food or drink. All to play mind games.” He added that even the pilot, who successfully managed the unexpected diversion, had never encountered such a severe situation in his career. Troost-Ekong called upon the Nigerian government to intervene, expressing a collective decision among the players to refuse participation under the current conditions. “CAF should look at the report and what is happening here,” he stated, emphasizing their unwillingness to travel further under these hostile conditions. He commended their respect for their opponents when hosting them in Nigeria but condemned the current treatment they were experiencing as completely unacceptable in international football.
The situation surrounding the Nigerian national football team’s travel to Libya has drawn attention to the complexities often faced by African teams during international fixtures. The Super Eagles were preparing to compete in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, a significant tournament that serves as a platform for national pride and sporting excellence. However, logistical challenges, compounded by allegations of government interference and a lack of basic amenities, have highlighted the struggles faced by athletes in certain regions. This incident raises broader questions regarding the treatment and conditions provided for teams traveling for competitions, particularly in politically sensitive environments. The response from the Nigerian players showcases their solidarity and determination to advocate for their rights under such circumstances.
In conclusion, the ordeal faced by Wilfred Ndidi and his Nigerian teammates has sparked significant concern over safety, hospitality, and the overall treatment of athletes in international sporting events. The declaration from the players emphasizing their plight and the potential boycott of the match reflect a larger issue within the realm of international football, particularly within Africa. This situation calls for a thorough examination by governing bodies such as CAF to ensure fair and respectful treatment of all teams, fostering a competitive environment free from undue obstacles or hostility.
Original Source: www.mirror.co.uk
