The Chairman of the National Institution for Human Rights in Libya (NIHRL), Ahmed Hamza, has issued a strong warning against retaliatory acts targeting Nigerian workers in Libya. This caution follows recent sanctions by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), which declared Libya’s football team as having forfeited a match against Nigeria.
“We warn against any form of retaliation against foreign and migrant workers in Libya, especially Nigerian workers, by security forces, armed groups, or citizens,” Hamza emphasised.
He further noted the spread of hate speech, stating that some social media platforms and bloggers are inciting prejudice and hostility towards foreigners, portraying them as illegal or irregular residents.
“Managing the entry, exit, and residence of foreign workers is the responsibility of the Ministry of Labour and Rehabilitation, the Anti-Illegal Migration Agency, the Department of Passports and Foreigners’ Affairs, and the Ministry of Interior,” Hamza stated, warning that unlawful actions could lead to domestic and even international justice.
Hamza urged Libya’s Ministry of Interior, under the Government of National Unity, and the government adopted by Libya’s House of Representatives, to take immediate steps to halt these dangerous campaigns.
He highlighted the government’s responsibility to protect all residents within Libya’s borders, regardless of their legal status.
He concluded by stressing the need to end these inhumane and illegal practices which violate the principles of humanitarian protection under international law, warning of severe legal consequences and serious repercussions if such actions continue.
