Understanding Libya’s Deportation of Seven Nigerians: What You Need to Know
Following a recent ruling by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Libyan authorities have begun targeting Nigerian nationals living in the country, reportedly in retaliation for Libya’s $50,000 fine related to the mistreatment of the Nigerian national football team during a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier.
This ruling, which also awarded Nigeria a forfeit victory and three points, has sparked significant backlash in Libya, where media outlets and public figures have called for punitive actions against Nigerians.
In the wake of this, numerous Nigerians in Libya have reported mass arrests and threats of deportation, particularly for those without legal documents.
Libyan authorities have been urged by local media to enforce fines of $500 and deport those without proper residency permits.
Nigerians, even those with valid documents, have been caught up in this widespread crackdown. Community leaders and residents have expressed fear, with some fearing for their safety as the arrests intensify