Nigerian sprinter, Oduduru handed provisional suspension

• …As Athletics Integrity Unit seeks 6 years ban

The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU), has provisionally suspended Nigerian sprinter, Divine Oduduru, from participating in any competition or activity due to two potential Anti-Doping Rule Violations (ADRVs).

The AIU in a press statement revealed that the alleged violation was against Rule 2.6 of the World Athletics Anti-Doping Rules; ADR) which frowns at attempted use of multiple prohibited substances, hence the body is seeking a six-year ban against the Nigerian.

“The sprinter has been notified of potential ADRVs for possession Rule 2.6 of the

World Athletics Anti-Doping Rules; ADR) and/or attempted use of multiple

Prohibited Substances (Rule 2.2 ADR). He has been provisionally suspended

immediately.

“These alleged violations stem from an AIU investigation based on information in a

criminal charge brought against US-based “naturopathic” therapist Eric Lira, on 12

January, 2022, by the United States Department of Justice under the Rodchenkov Act

“Lira is alleged to have supplied performance-enhancing drugs to athletes before the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games (delayed until summer 2021 because of the Covid-19 pandemic). The complaint against Lira provides specific information regarding persons identified as ‘Athlete 1’ and ‘Athlete 2’,”the statement reads in part.

Oduduru’s provisional suspension comes a year after his team mate Blessing Okagbare was banned for 11 years for doping before the commencement of the Tokyo Olympics.

According to the statement “In February 2022, a sole arbitrator of the AIU Disciplinary Tribunal concluded that they were “comfortably satisfied” that ‘Athlete 1’ was Oduduru’s team-mate, Blessing Okagbare, and banned her from the sport for ten years, which was increased to an 11-year ban in June 2022 following further charges brought by the AIU.”