Controversy erupted at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta on Saturday during the 100m finals of the National Sports Festival, as Team Edo and Team Delta split sprint golds amidst protests, drama, and accusations of interference.
Chidera Ezeaku of Team Edo clocked 10.27 seconds to win the men’s 100m final, while Delta’s Kate Odumoso stormed to victory in the women’s race with a time of 11.43 seconds. However, her triumph was marred by tension, as she collapsed immediately after the race and required emergency medical attention.
The real storm, however, centered on U.S.-based sprinter Favour Ashe, who was dramatically disqualified just moments before the men’s final. Ashe, a clear favourite for gold after breezing through the heats, was allegedly barred from competing due to wearing a ‘second bib’, a decision that stunned the crowd and drew immediate backlash from Team Delta.
What shocked many observers was the claim that the disqualification order came not from technical officials, but from Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC). Olopade, who has no official capacity within the Athletics Federation, was accused of overstepping his bounds by personally pronouncing Ashe’s disqualification.
“This is interference at the highest level,” a Delta team official said. “To make matters worse, a similar infraction occurred during the women’s 100m T54/56 final just minutes later, yet no action was taken. This reeks of bias and injustice.”
In response, Team Delta lodged an official protest with the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), demanding justice and a review of the controversial decision, which they believe was politically motivated.
“This goes beyond one athlete; it’s about protecting the integrity of competition,” a Delta representative added. “Officials must act within their jurisdiction, and the rules must apply equally to all.”
The controversy has sparked heated debates within the sports community, fueling widespread criticism of the handling of the event.
Despite the controversy, Team Delta has opened up a big lead on the medal table of the National Sports Festival, winning more gold medals to establish an unassailable lead over their closest rivals, Bayelsa.
