The sprinter stated that he was compelled to compete despite nursing a hamstring injury and feeling unwell, raising serious questions about athlete welfare within Nigeria’s athletics system.


Ogazi, 19, who has dazzled all season with standout performances on the U.S. collegiate circuit, appeared off-form during his race in Tokyo. While speaking after the event, he claimed officials from the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, AFN, insisted he run, even after he made his physical condition clear.


“I told the Team Nigeria officials I wasn’t prepared for this race because my hamstring is bothering me, but they still insisted I should go out there,” said a visibly disappointed Ogazi. “So I did what I could, and that’s the outcome,” he said.


Ogazi explained that just days before traveling, he was in top shape. But after arriving in Tokyo, he experienced tightness in his hamstring during a routine workout.


“On Monday, back home, I had a very good practice and I felt ready. I flew in on Tuesday. On Wednesday, I went for a shakeout and felt something in my hamstring. I don’t run with injuries. Everybody who knows me knows that,” he added.


Despite promptly alerting officials, Ogazi says his concerns were brushed aside.


Ogazi emphasized that he would have preferred to sit out the race entirely rather than risk aggravating the injury, especially after recent health setbacks.

Source: Premium Times