Uko’s provisional suspension began on July 7, 2024, with all her results from that date annulled. The ban will keep her out of competition until July 23, 2026.

Reacting to the ban, Uko publicly criticized the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), accusing it of negligence and corruption.

In a post titled “Exposing the Truth: My Fight Against an Unjust Suspension”, shared via Instagram, she claimed technical failures and lack of support led to her inability to meet the whereabouts requirements.

“For months, I struggled with an online system meant to report my whereabouts—a crucial requirement for athletes undergoing drug testing.

“Despite reaching out repeatedly for help, I was met with endless excuses about network issues and told to wait. My messages often went unanswered, leaving me feeling abandoned by the very organization that is supposed to protect and support athletes,” she wrote.

She described the inability to get assistance from the federation as part of the corruption bedeviling the sports, urging athletes not to remain silent.

“This situation has exposed the corruption and negligence within the federation that is supposed to champion our rights as athletes. I refuse to remain silent while they misuse their power and undermine our careers.

“I am sharing my story to shine a light on the systemic issues that plague our sports organizations. It’s time for athletes to stand together and demand accountability and transparency. No one should have to suffer the consequences of a broken system.

“Let’s unite to expose these injustices and fight for a fairer future in sports. Together, we can make a difference,” she concluded.

Responding to her allegations, the AFN dismissed Uko’s claims, maintaining that it is the sole responsibility of athletes to ensure compliance with anti-doping regulations by submitting their whereabouts information regularly.

“Athletes are required to provide the following whereabouts information on a quarterly basis,” the federation stated.

The Federation emphasized that the sanction stemmed from Uko’s failure to meet her obligations, not from any fault of the AFN.

“Athletes are role models, and they have an important responsibility to protect the integrity of their sport. Providing whereabouts is about protecting the athlete’s right to clean sport.

“Notice of whereabouts filing is sent to all athletes regularly and Imaobong was sent several notices both from AFN and NADC so she should own up to her responsibility and not blame the Federation,” the statement added.

While distancing itself from any alleged wrongdoing, the AFN reiterated its commitment to drug education campaigns targeting athletes, coaches, and technical officials.