Super Falcons midfielder Esther Okoronkwo has responded defiantly after receiving racist abuse on social media following her comments about a hotel theft incident involving members of Nigeria’s squad ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
In an Instagram post on Sunday, Okoronkwo said the team would not allow hatred to distract it from its mission.
“Hate cannot drive out hate. Only love can do that. We move forward with pride, unity and determination. See you on the pitch,” she wrote.
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The midfielder had earlier disclosed that she, Chiamaka Nnadozie, Michelle Alozie and captain Rasheedat Ajibade were among the players whose cash was stolen from their rooms at the team’s hotel in Casablanca before the Super Falcons departed for Rabat.
Following her comments, Okoronkwo’s social media page was flooded with racist messages and abusive comments.
Reports later emerged that a suspect had been arrested in connection with the alleged theft and had reportedly confessed to the crime.
Former Super Eagles media officer Colin Udoh also called on football authorities to investigate the racist abuse directed at the Nigerian midfielder.
Despite the off-field distractions, the Super Falcons remain focused on their quest to win a record-extending 11th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title.
Nigeria will begin its Group C campaign against Malawi before taking on Zambia and Egypt.
