No AFN Blame For Uko Doping, Federation Vows Clean Athletics

The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has issued an official statement distancing itself from the recent two-year suspension handed to Nigerian sprinter Imaobong Nse Uko by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) of World Athletics for multiple whereabouts failures.

In a press release, the AFN emphasized that the responsibility for whereabouts filing lies squarely with the athlete, not the national federation. Uko, a 2021 World U20 gold medalist and Olympian, was sanctioned after committing three whereabouts failures within a 12-month period — a violation of World Athletics’ anti-doping regulations. Her suspension is set to expire in July 2026.

“Whereabouts filing is the sole responsibility of elite athletes,” the AFN stated. “Athletes are required to submit information on their home address, email, phone number, overnight accommodations, and regular daily activities such as training and school on a quarterly basis. Failing to do so leads to consequences under the anti-doping code.”

The federation noted that it does not conduct whereabouts tests and clarified that such oversight is under the jurisdiction of the National Anti-Doping Organizations (NADOs), International Federations (IFs), and Major Event Organizations (MEOs).

“The AFN cannot conduct whereabouts tests,” the statement added. “It is the duty of international bodies like the AIU or NADC (Nigeria Anti-Doping Committee) to determine athletes’ compliance.”

While distancing itself from the ban, the AFN reiterated its commitment to promoting anti-doping education and clean sport. It highlighted its recent drug education campaigns, including one held during the 2024 National Sports Festival (Gateway Games) in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

“The Federation is committed to continuous drug advocacy among athletes, coaches, and technical officials,”

The statement continued: “Anti-doping seminars regularly address topics such as Whereabouts Filing, Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUE), and Anti-Doping Rule Violations. The doping education arm of the AFN is led by Professor Ken Anugweje.”

Regarding Uko’s case, the federation disclosed that multiple notifications were sent to her by both the AFN and NADC regarding her whereabouts obligations.

It also claimed that she was guided through the process when issues were raised, but failed to keep her records up to date.

“Athletes were sent several notices, including Imaobong,” the statement read. “She should take responsibility for her failure to update her whereabouts information and not blame the federation.”

The AFN concluded by calling on the media to support its ongoing clean sport campaign and encouraged athletes to actively participate in anti-doping advocacy alongside global bodies such as the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU).

“Athlete discipline is crucial. We will continue to educate and test to ensure that Nigerian athletes remain committed to clean competition,” the statement affirmed.

Sports247.ng