The 21 year old quarter miler, best known for winning gold in the mixed 4 x 400 meters relay at the 2021 World Under 20 Championships, tested positive for a prohibited substance during routine testing, leading to immediate disciplinary action.
According to the AIU, the two year suspension is in line with anti doping regulations under World Athletics guidelines. Uko's ban takes effect immediately, with all her results during the period of the violation subject to annulment.
The specific substance involved has not yet been publicly disclosed, but sources close to the case indicate it was classified under the list of non specified prohibited substances, which carry automatic bans unless challenged.
Uko, who ran a personal best of 51.24 seconds in 2022 and featured at the Tokyo Olympics, now faces an extended period out of competition. She will miss the Paris 2024 Olympics qualification series, the African Championships, and other major events.
The AIU’s action deals a heavy blow to one of Nigeria’s brightest young sprint talents, who had been tipped for a breakthrough on the senior global stage.
Nigeria remains under close watch by international anti doping authorities, classified as a high risk nation due to multiple past infractions. The Athletics Federation of Nigeria has struggled with oversight in recent years, prompting increased monitoring and education initiatives for athletes.
Uko has the right to appeal the decision through the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). However, unless the ban is overturned, she will be ineligible for competition until at least 2027.
Nigerian sprinter Imaobong Nse Uko has been banned for two years by the Athletics Integrity Unit following a doping violation. The suspension sidelines her from major international events and marks a setback in her young career.
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