Ramot Ayodele, a young karate fighter from Team Lagos, secured a bronze medal in the -47kg category at the 8th National Youth Games in Asaba.
Speaking with Sports247, Ayodele voiced her disappointment, alleging that she was unfairly deprived of a gold or silver medal due to biased officiating.
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When asked about her participation, she confirmed, “This is my first time participating.” Despite describing her overall experience as fine, she emphasized that there was cheating involved.
“From Team FCT. All these girls don’t know how to fight and every score I win, they were giving it to the opponent,” she said, expressing her frustration.
Ayodele detailed an instance where she believed she clearly scored, but the points were awarded to her opponent.
“I gave the girl Mawashi, they did not give me… Everybody is saying that they did ‘Ojoro.’
This FCT is because of their money. I can comfortably say that it’s not even the girl that beat me. It’s the referee that beat me.”
When asked about her feelings on winning bronze, Ayodele expressed her discontent, stating, “I feel bad.”
She added that even her teammates were upset by the perceived unfairness. However, looking forward to next year, she remained optimistic and determined, saying, “Ah, next year.
That one for sure, I’ll win gold. I’ll make sure that I win gold. If they don’t do ‘ojoro’ again.”
