In an unusual turn of events, Libyan authorities have expressed intentions to take legal action against Captain Abdellatif Merchergui, the Tunisian pilot responsible for flying Nigeria’s Super Eagles to Libya for their 2025 AFCON qualifying match. The game, which was to be the return leg after Nigeria’s 1-0 victory in Uyo, was abandoned due to a series of logistical and safety issues upon the team’s arrival in Libya.
The Nigerian national team, upon reaching Libya, was subjected to an unexpected diversion, landing 300 kilometers away from the original airport destination in Benghazi. Forced to spend 16 hours stranded at the airport without food or water, the team faced further complications due to this reroute, which Libyan authorities claim was a mandate from higher-ups. Captain Merchergui, foreseeing a potential hazard, reportedly warned of the unsafe conditions related to diverting the aircraft. He subsequently testified before the CAF disciplinary body, sharing his account of the events, which leaned toward defending Nigeria’s experience in Libya.
Captain Merchergui’s testimony, which stressed his decision to prioritize safety despite the diversion orders, appeared to directly conflict with Libya’s narrative. His remarks were met with immediate backlash from Abdul Hakim Al-Shalmani, a Libyan CAF Executive Committee member, who condemned Merchergui’s actions as a betrayal of “North African unity.” Al-Shalmani, who criticized the pilot’s defense of Nigeria, announced plans to file a formal complaint against Merchergui for what he labeled “false and slanderous” statements.
Al-Shalmani’s remarks, reported by Libya Akhbar, reflect his belief that Merchergui’s testimony served only Nigeria’s interests, disregarding what he viewed as the diplomatic relationship between Libya and Tunisia. He accused the Nigerian side of using its international players’ reputations to portray an image of victimization and alleged that Nigeria’s portrayal of events misrepresented Libya.
As this incident unfolds, Captain Merchergui could face further scrutiny as Libya pursues a formal grievance.
