The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and Canadian side AFC Toronto have condemned the racist abuse directed at Super Falcons forward Esther Okoronkwo following an incident in which her money was stolen at the team’s hotel during the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The football authorities and the player’s club issued separate statements on Monday expressing solidarity with the Nigeria international after she became the target of hateful comments and monkey emojis on social media.
The controversy stemmed from a theft at the Super Falcons’ hotel, where a staff member reportedly stole cash belonging to Okoronkwo during the team’s stay in Morocco for the continental tournament.
Moroccan law enforcement authorities subsequently arrested the suspect, recovered the stolen money, ordered its return to the player and secured a six-month prison sentence for the offender.
Despite the swift intervention by the authorities, Okoronkwo was subjected to racist abuse online, prompting widespread condemnation from the NFF and AFC Toronto.
In a statement posted on its X account, the NFF described the attacks as reprehensible and insisted that racism and discrimination have 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.
It noted that there was no justification for the abuse, pointing out that the person responsible for the theft had already been apprehended, compelled to return the stolen cash and sentenced to six months’ imprisonment.
“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,” the statement added.
The federation reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the welfare and dignity of members of the Super Falcons, stressing that the incident would not derail the team’s campaign at the tournament.
According to the NFF, the players remain united and focused on their quest for continental success.
AFC Toronto also denounced the abuse, describing racism as incompatible with the values of football and pledging unwavering support for the Nigerian forward.
“There is no place for racism in our game. Today and every day we stand for respect and inclusion,” the Canadian club stated.
The club said football should be an environment where everyone feels safe, respected and valued, adding that it stands with Okoronkwo and all athletes who experience racism and discrimination.
Quoting the Super Falcons star, the club added: “Hate cannot drive out hate. Only love can do that.”
AFC Toronto reiterated its commitment to promoting diversity, equality and inclusion while continuing to support players facing discrimination both on and off the pitch.