Reports: Chukwueze and Nigeria squad stuck in Libya airport – Osimhen speaks of ‘hostage situation’ | OneFootball

A rather bizarre situation is unfolding in Libya where the Nigeria squad have apparently been stuck in an airport for over 16 hours, with Samuel Chukwueze among the stranded players.

As Football Italia report, Chukwueze plus Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and the rest of Nigeria squad played against Libya in an AFCON qualifying game on Friday night at home and are due to play the same opponents in their country on Tuesday.

However, Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface has revealed on social media that the Super Eagles squad have been stuck in the Al Abraq airport in Libya for over 16 hours. They are stuck about three hours away from their final destination, with their flight having been diverted.

Some reports from Nigerian outlets claim that the players have been left without any food or drink as well as without a spot to sleep in. An old bus was sent to transport them to their final destination but it was so bad that the players refused to board it.

Victor Osimhen commented on the issue via a statement on his Instagram. He is not part of the squad, but has no doubt heard from team-mates regarding the debacle they are going through.

“I am disappointed by the unfair treatment my brothers and coaches are facing at the Libya airport last night. Actions like this go against the spirit of sportsmanship. My support is with the team and I know they’ll stay strong despite the obstacles,” he said.

“I call on CAF and other football bodies to intervene, as my teammates are still stranded at the airport in Libya. This is uncalled for and inhumane. We stand together, stronger than ever.

“This attempt by Libyan FA is no longer just a delay. It’s an intentional tactic to weaken and ruin the morale of the players, and it’s beginning to look more like a hostage situation.

“The safety and wellbeing of my teammates and all the team staffs are the most important things right now. Our captain has said we won’t play the match and I fully sport that, except if the game is to taken to a neutral ground.

My brothers and coaches must return home safely, we are not criminals or prisoners. I can imagine how terrible they must feel right now, as I’ve had a similar experience during my Under-17 days. This is totally unfair and heartbreaking.

“Again, I call on CAF, the Nigerian Government and other relevant authorities to act swiftly and ensure their safe return.”

What is worse for Chukwueze is that he was/is expected to return to Italy at the earliest convenience having picked up an injury, with Milan now seemingly left guessing as to when he will actually land back.