Nigeria’s sprinter, Favour Ofili, continues to express frustration towards the Athletics Federation of Nigeria and the Nigeria Olympic Committee for failing to enroll her in the women’s 100m event at the current Paris Olympics, as reported by PUNCH Sports Extra.
The 21-year-old first raised concerns on Tuesday night and has since shared her disappointment over the situation, especially after her absence from the heats that happened on Friday.
Despite the Sports Minister, John Enoh, stating that he initiated an investigation into the matter, both the AFN and NOC have denied any responsibility. Any hopes for a last-minute solution faded on Friday, leading the athlete to anticipate consequences.
“Regrettably, no actions have been taken yet. I have not seen or heard of anyone being held accountable for what the NOC and AFN did to me. Athletes should not suffer consequences for issues beyond their control,” Ofili shared on X after missing the heats on Friday.
“Who is responsible for registering athletes into the Olympic Games – is it World Athletics? If so, shouldn’t they be held responsible for failing to enroll athletes in events they qualify for and wish to participate in?”
“NOC and AFN, this is not the first time you have engaged in such behavior, so do not assume this matter is closed because it is far from over.”
Ofili earned her spot in the women’s 100m event during the AFN National Trials at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City in June. She set a new personal best of 11.06s to clinch her first national title.
In April, she achieved the Olympic 200m qualification at the Tom Jones Memorial Classic with a time of 22.33s.
She is slated to compete in the 200m heats on Sunday and later in the women’s 4x100m relay next Thursday – the two events she was officially registered for.