Nigeria: Like Politicians, Gale Of Defections Hits Athletes

By Eben Enasco

The trend of defections in Nigeria has extended beyond the realm of politics, with athletes also jumping ship to rival teams or countries.

Since Nigeria has become a country ruled by an individual, we face practical extinction from the constitutional framework.

This phenomenon mirrors the political landscape, where politicians frequently switch parties, often for personal gain or strategic advantage.

The Politician’s Playbook

In Nigerian politics, defections have become a common occurrence, with many politicians switching parties to further their careers or gain access to power and resources.

This trend has raised concerns about the stability and integrity of the country’s democratic system.

Similarly, in the sports world, athletes have been known to switch teams or countries, often for similar reasons.

Nigerian sprinter and 150m world record holder, Favour Ofili, has reportedly switched her sporting allegiance to Turkey, just months before the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.

Jamaica-based journalist Kayon Raynor disclosed the development on his X account on Saturday, citing sources from a News Centre.

According to Raynor, the switch took effect on May 31, 2025, and was formally communicated to the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) following what he described as persistent frustrations with the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN).

He added that the sprinter had “embraced Turkish citizenship” after being repeatedly sidelined by Nigerian sports authorities.

Ofili, 22, reportedly referenced her exclusion from the 100m event at the 2024 Paris Olympics and her absence from the delayed Tokyo 2020 Olympics due to administrative lapses as key reasons for the decision.

She stated that the Nigerian Athletics Federation caused her to miss the Tokyo 2020 Olympics when they did not confirm her number of doping control tests, Raynor noted.

“She then missed competing in the 100m at the Paris Olympics after they did not enter her for the event. She was sixth in the 200m final.”

Sources close to the athlete indicated that her decision to switch nationality was based on professional frustrations rather than financial incentives, despite ongoing reports that Turkey has offered substantial benefits, including up to $500,000, to attract international athletes.

Nigeria, has witnessed a string of high-profile defections in the past, including Francis Obikwelu, Portugal, Gloria Alozie, Spain, and Femi Ogunode, Qatar, all of whom achieved international success representing their adopted countries.

The Athletics Federation of Nigeria has yet to issue an official response to the development.

While some may argue that this is a normal part of the sports industry, others see it as a reflection of the broader cultural and societal issues in Nigeria.

The frequent defections in both politics and sports raise questions about loyalty and commitment.

In due time, we would begin to witness a seller of tomatoes, defects to a Garri selling trader and a doctor defecting to become a Journalist in a deteriorating democratic precedent, creating holes in the earlier foundation of a systematic governance.

When individuals switch teams or parties, it can create uncertainty and undermine trust.

Many defections appear to be driven by personal gain, whether financial or in terms of career advancement. This can lead to a focus on individual interests over the greater good.

Defections can have a significant impact on teams and parties, potentially destabilizing them and affecting their performance.

To address the issue of defections in politics, electoral reforms could be implemented to make it more difficult for politicians to switch parties without consequences.

In sports, fostering a strong team culture and sense of loyalty can help reduce the likelihood of athletes switching teams.

Holding individuals accountable for their actions and decisions can help promote a sense of responsibility and integrity.

Addressing these concerns will require a multifaceted approach that involves electoral reforms, stronger team cultures, and a focus on promoting integrity and responsibility.