Libya Cracks Down on Nigerians Following CAF Verdict: Mass Arrests and Deportation Calls Spark International Outrage

Libya Cracks Down on Nigerians Following CAF Verdict: Mass Arrests and Deportation Calls Spark International Outrage

Tensions between Nigeria and Libya have reached a boiling point after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) ruled in favor of Nigeria, imposing a $50,000 fine on the Libyan Football Federation for the ill-treatment of the Super Eagles during their visit to Libya . The verdict has sparked widespread arrests of Nigerians in Libya, with many being detained regardless of their documentation status .

According to Adenaike Emmanuel, a Nigerian living in Tripoli, the arrests began on Sunday, with Libyans seeking revenge for the CAF ruling ¹. "They have already started... They believe that by doing this, they are getting their revenge," Emmanuel stated. Peter Omoregbie, President of the Nigerian community in Libya, confirmed the arrests, emphasizing that even those with passports and residence permits are being targeted .

The situation has been exacerbated by Libyan media outlets, such as Libya News Today 1, which have called for the arrest of undocumented Nigerian workers and proposed a $500 fine plus taxes ¹ ². Social media platforms have also been filled with incendiary posts, alleging that Nigerian workers are a burden on Libyan resources.

Human Rights Concerns

Human rights organizations have condemned the actions, warning of a rise in hatred and incitement towards foreigners in Libya . The National Institution for Human Rights in Libya has cautioned against retaliatory acts, emphasizing that unlawful actions against foreigners could lead to repercussions in domestic and international justice .

International Response

The Nigerian government has been urged to investigate the arrests and report Libya to the African Union ¹. Former Nigerian ambassador to Mexico, Ogbole Amedu-Ode, advised Nigerians in Libya to keep a low profile until the situation is resolved, suggesting that those affected should consider leaving the country .

As the situation continues to unfold, the international community remains vigilant, calling for calm and restraint. The treatment of Nigerians in Libya has sparked concerns about the safety and well-being of foreign workers in the country.