FG denies reports of mass arrest of Nigerians by Libyan government over CAF verdict

The Federal Government has dismissed reports of mass arrest and harassment of Nigerians residing in Libya following a recent ruling by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in favour of Nigeria.

The CAF had awarded the Super Eagles of Nigeria some points and had fined Libya $50,000 over the mistreatment of the Nigerian team during a Nations Cup Qualifying Match.

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

However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Nigerians are safe in Libya. The ministry reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens in Libya.

“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