AFN urges Divine Oduduru to appeal six-year doping ban

The Athletic Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has urged Divine Oduduru to appeal his six years ban and fine by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU).

Oduduru was recently handed a six-year ban and a $3,000 fine by World Athletics for Anti-Doping Rule Violations (ADRVs).

Meanwhile, Guardian Nigeria reported that Victor Okorie, a United States-based board member of the AFN has advised Oduduru to appeal the ban and the fine.

Okorie who serves as AFN’s Performance Director, has emphasized that there is no concrete evidence of doping against Oduduru.

Commenting on the matter, Okorie said, “No evidence of doping against Oduduru, so they must acquit him.”

He also encouraged Oduduru to take advantage of the opportunity to appeal. The World Athletics has given the sprinter 30 days to contest the ban at the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS).

Oduduru was penalized for two ADRVs, involving the possession and attempted use of prohibited substances.

The disciplinary tribunal found him guilty and ordered a six-year ban, along with the $3,000 fine, which he must pay for World Athletics’ case expenses.

During his defense, Oduduru maintained his innocence, stating that the evidence used to ban him was largely circumstantial.

He argued that he should not be held responsible for messages exchanged between Blessing Okagbare and Eric Lira, as well as the testimony of an individual who reported finding drugs, syringes, and prohibited substances in his Florida apartment.

The tribunal did not accept Oduduru’s pleas, but CAS provides an opportunity for him to challenge the ban.