The Imo State government has reaffirmed its commitment to drug-free sports while partnering with the Ibadan Botanical Doping Research Group from the University of Ibadan.
Speaking at a sensitisation workshop organised for Imo athletes held on Thursday at the Dan Anyiam Sports Stadium, Owerri, Governor Hope Uzodimma, represented by the Commissioner for Sports, Everestus Obinna Onyeocha, said that his administration has been at the forefront of promoting clean sports in the state.
He said: “My government’s deep-rooted involvement in athletics underscores our zero-tolerance policy towards doping. Our athletes must always strive to compete clean.”
Uzodimma the who was the former President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, declared that substance abuse not only damages careers but also tarnishes the image of our great state, adding that with the right education and discipline, Imo athletes will continue to represent the state with honour and integrity
Addressing the Imo State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), the team leader of Ibadan Botanical Doping Research Group Dr.(Mrs.) Peggy-Joe Olaseninde, shared insights into their mission, describing their work as critical in uncovering the hidden dangers of commonly used indigenous herbs and roots.
She described it as a landmark initiative aimed at promoting clean sports, adding that the Imo State Government, through the Ministry of Sports, has partnered with the Ibadan Botanical Doping Research Group—an academic team from the University of Ibadan—to sensitize athletes on the dangers of doping, including the use of indigenous herbs and roots that may trigger positive doping results.
She said: “We are a group of researchers investigating Optotomous Botanical Supplement Doping, which is essentially a baptismal name for the indigenous herbs and roots widely consumed in our society.”
Peggy-Joe explained that athletes often believe avoiding known banned substances is enough to stay safe, without realising that certain African herbs can also result in a positive doping test.
She said: “These herbs and roots are often synthesised into modern drugs, making them potentially dangerous when misused. That’s why we’re going around sensitising athletes and the public. We appreciate the collaboration with the Ministry of Sports and hope the partnership continues so we can keep spreading awareness.”
According to her, the initiative marks a proactive step in safeguarding the future of sports in Imo State and ensuring that athletes are well-informed about all potential doping risks, including those that may stem from traditional, indigenous sources.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor of Imo State on Narcotics and Illicit Drug Abuse, Nonitoribg Chief Obonna Ezechukwu, emphasised the administration’s strong stance against drug abuse.
He said that the research group is partnering with the Imo State Government to enlighten athletes on substances they must avoid to prevent testing positive in doping screenings.
The SA pointed out that the Imo state government has significantly reduced drug abuse in Imo State, making history as the first governor to appoint an SA on Narcotics.
He said, “The fight against dangerous substances is ongoing, and we welcome any initiative that strengthens this course.”
