Just In: Peter Obi Breaks Silence on Super Eagles' Libya Ordeal

The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has commended the Super Eagles players for their patriotism, patience, and forbearance in the face of the unfair treatment in Libya.

Recall that Nigerian players and officials faced a distressing ordeal on Sunday when they were stranded for several hours at a Libyan airport, denied access to food and the internet as they prepared to honor their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against the Mediterranean Knights.

Following their ill-treatment, the Super Eagles players refused to go-ahead with the match, choosing to return back to Nigeria.

Reacting in a statement on his X handle on Thursday morning, Peter Obi urged the players not to be discourage over their ordeal in the North African country.

The former Anambra State Governor noted that the sad experience should encourage Nigerians to work hard to bring more respect and dignity to the country.

His statement reads: "Like every other patriotic Nigerian, I sincerely sympathize with our dear Super Eagles over their ordeal in Libya on their way to play the Morocco 2025 AFCON Qualifier return leg match, which was later delisted by CAF following the players' decision not to play the match.

"The neglect and abandonment they and their officials suffered at a remote Libyan airport is highly regrettable and justifies their alternative decision of returning home.

"While we await the outcome of an investigation ordered by CAF, I wish to use this opportunity to commend the players for their patriotism, patience, and forbearance in the face of the unfair treatment by our Libyan brothers.

"I appeal to them not to allow this sad experience dampen their zeal or break their spirit.

"On the other hand, it should recharge their determination to fight to win the match whenever it takes place, to qualify for the Morocco 2025 AFCON, and, to win the championship.

"In times like this, when Nigerians are left dejected by the sorry state of affairs in the country, every victory by the Super Eagles would not only serve to unite the country but also give Nigerians something to celebrate.

"The sad experience of our national team in Libya should encourage all of us to work hard to bring more respect and dignity to our nation.

"With the right leadership in place, Nigeria surely will rise again. Indeed, a new Nigeria is POssible."