October 13, (THEWILL) – A The Athletics Integrity Unit has delivered a six-year suspension from the sport to Nigerian sprinter, Divine Oduduru, over two anti-doping breaches.
In announcing its decision on Thursday, the AIU stated there was “conclusive proof” against the 27-year-old former junior world medallist, relating to the possession and attempted use of prohibited substances.
The violations are linked to the case of Oduduru’s teammate, Blessing Okagbare, who received an 11-year ban earlier this year after multiple failures of her drug test. AIU head, Brett Clothier, said the spate of offences revealed a “conspiracy between athletes and others aimed at corrupting athletics.” Oduduru had been provisionally banned since February.
Evidence acquired during the investigation of Okagbare factored heavily in the ruling against Oduduru. US law enforcement had indicted a therapist for supplying banned performance-enhancers to Olympic athletes, finding incriminating communications between the therapist and Okagbare regarding procuring substances, including on Oduduru’s behalf.
Incriminating material was also discovered during a search of Oduduru’s Florida home, including various types of human growth hormone and erythropoietin. While maintaining his innocence, Oduduru was unable to dismiss the messages implicating him or explain the banned items in his possession.
Clothier commended cooperation from US anti-doping and legal bodies that aided both cases with vital information. The punishment is a blow for the 27-year-old Oduduru, who ran 9.86 seconds over 100m in Tokyo before his disqualification from the heats, advancing to the 200m semi-finals.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
