The Nigeria Football Federation and AFC Toronto have condemned the Esther Okoronkwo racist abuse that followed the theft of her money at the Super Falcons’ hotel in Morocco.
According to The Punch, the incident occurred during Nigeria’s stay for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. A hotel employee reportedly stole cash belonging to the midfielder before Moroccan authorities arrested and prosecuted the suspect.
Authorities recovered the money and ordered its return to Okoronkwo. A court also sentenced the hotel worker to six months in prison over the theft.
Despite the action taken against the offender, social media users directed racist comments and monkey emojis at the Nigerian international. The abuse prompted Okoronkwo to respond publicly and drew strong criticism from the NFF and her Canadian club.
NFF condemns Esther Okoronkwo racist abuse
In a statement released on X on Monday, the NFF described the attacks as unacceptable and said discrimination had no place in football or society.
“The Nigeria Football Federation strongly condemns the unacceptable racist abuse directed at Super Falcons forward Esther Okoronkwo on social media following recent incidents at the team’s hotel in Morocco,” the federation said.
The NFF questioned why anyone would target the player after authorities had arrested the person responsible for the theft. It noted that the offender returned the stolen money and received a prison sentence.
“The racist abuse and emojis directed at our player make absolutely no sense, especially as the individual responsible for the theft was apprehended, made to return the stolen cash in full, and sentenced to six months in prison,” it added.
The federation assured Okoronkwo and other Super Falcons players of its support, saying their safety, dignity and welfare remained important.
It also said the incident would not distract the team from its Women’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign. Nigeria was preparing to face Malawi in its opening match when the federation issued the statement.
“The entire team stands united, unbothered by distractions, and fully focused on tomorrow’s WAFCON 2026 opener against Malawi,” the NFF said.
AFC Toronto stands with Nigerian international
AFC Toronto also condemned the online attacks and reaffirmed its commitment to respect and inclusion in football.
The Canadian club said Okoronkwo had endured racist abuse while representing Nigeria at the continental tournament. It stressed that football should remain safe and welcoming for players from every background.
“There is no place for racism in our game. Today and every day, we stand for respect and inclusion,” the club said.
AFC Toronto expressed pride in supporting Okoronkwo and other athletes who experience discrimination on or away from the pitch.
“At AFC Toronto, we believe football should be a place where everyone feels safe, respected and valued,” the statement read.
“We are proud to stand with Esther and all athletes who face racism and discrimination, both on and off the pitch.”
The club also shared a message attributed to the Super Falcons player: “Hate cannot drive out hate. Only love can do that.”
It added that it would continue supporting efforts to make football more respectful and inclusive.
Okoronkwo remains focused on WAFCON
The controversy emerged as the Super Falcons prepared for their campaign in Morocco. The team entered the tournament seeking another successful outing in African women’s football.
The NFF maintained that the players remained united and focused despite the online abuse.
Both organisations called for an end to racist attacks against athletes and urged football supporters to promote respect rather than hatred.
The condemnation of the Esther Okoronkwo racist abuse adds to continuing calls for social media platforms and football authorities to take stronger action against online discrimination.
