Nigerian sprinter Imaobong Nse Uko has spoken out publicly for the first time since receiving a two-year suspension, alleging negligence and systemic failure within the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).
In a powerful social media post, the 21-year-old 400m star—who won gold at the 2021 World U20 Championships—claimed her ban was the result of “a flawed system and a corrupt federation” that failed to support her through the required anti-doping procedures.
“I have been handed a two-year suspension based on a flawed system and a corrupt federation that has failed to support me when I needed it most,” Uko wrote.
Imaobong shared whatsapp images to supports her claims.
Uko said she struggled to access the online whereabouts reporting platform used for anti-doping compliance, citing persistent technical issues.
Despite reaching out to federation officials, including Mbachi Louis, Mrs Onos, and Assistant Secretary Taldang, she says her concerns were ignored.
“Despite reaching out repeatedly for help, I was met with endless excuses about network issues and told to wait. My messages often went unanswered,” she wrote.
Imaobong shared whatsapp images to supports her claims.
The sprinter said the lack of response directly contributed to her failure to comply with testing protocols, which eventually led to her ban.
During the disciplinary hearing, she claimed AFN officials accused her of submitting incorrect information—an allegation she firmly denies.
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Describing the experience as isolating and emotionally draining, Uko said she is speaking out to ensure other athletes are not subjected to similar treatment.
“This situation has exposed the corruption and negligence within the federation that is supposed to champion our rights as athletes. I refuse to remain silent while they misuse their power.”
Her statement has triggered widespread reaction across Nigeria’s athletics community, with many calling for an independent investigation into how the AFN handles athlete compliance and communication.
Imaobong shared whatsapp images to supports her claims.
At just 14 years old, Uko rose to national prominence after winning the 400 metres title at the National Sports Festival with a personal best of 52.36 seconds.
She stunned more experienced competitors and was hailed as one of Nigeria’s brightest track prospects.
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She went on to win gold at the World U20 Championships in Nairobi in 2021 and successfully defended her NSF title the same year.
Imaobong shared whatsapp images to supports her claims.
The Athletics Federation of Nigeria has not yet commented on Uko’s claims.
Uko concluded her post with a call for transparency, athlete unity, and reform, urging her peers to “stand together and demand accountability.”
“Together, we can make a difference,” she said, using hashtags like #ExposeTheCorruption and #JusticeForImaobong.
