FG Refutes Reports of Mass Arrests of Nigerians by Libyan Government Following CAF Verdict

The Federal Government has rejected reports of mass arrests and harassment of Nigerians living in Libya following a recent ruling by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in favor of Nigeria.

CAF awarded the Super Eagles points and fined Libya $50,000 due to the mistreatment of the Nigerian team during a Nations Cup Qualifying Match.

In the wake of the ruling, reports surfaced claiming that Nigerians were facing various forms of harassment in Libya.

Some Libyan news outlets suggested that their government should increase taxes on Nigerians to cover the fine imposed on the Libyan football team by CAF, and some Nigerians in Libya reported instances of arrest.

However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Nigerians are safe in Libya and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens 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.