By: IDNN Investigative Sports Desk
ABEOKUTA — The Gateway Games 2024 suffered a blow to its celebrated sportsmanship narrative Wednesday when the Cycling Federation of Nigeria (CFN) issued a damning suspension to Edo State cycling coach, Jackson Iyobosa Edobor, following an explosive outburst that rocked the competition village.
Edobor was suspended indefinitely for what officials described as a violent threat toward race official Mr. Osaretin Emuze, whom the coach accused of influencing the outcome of the Male Team Pursuits cycling event.
The accusation quickly escalated into chaos — culminating in a death threat that sent shockwaves through the festival’s sports community.
“The coach threatened to kill the official — in full view of athletes and spectators,” a senior cycling official confirmed to IDNN.
Disgrace on Display: Cycling Federation Reacts Swiftly
In a strongly worded statement, the CFN condemned Edobor’s conduct as “unacceptable and disgraceful”, announcing his immediate suspension from:
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All cycling events at the NSF
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Access to the cycling venue
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Contact with festival officials
“This behaviour compromises the integrity of the sport,” the CFN said.
“We will not tolerate threats, intimidation, or any act that brings disrepute.”
A Path to Redemption – or Exile?
Edobor has been directed to submit a written apology within 48 hours, acknowledging his misconduct and committing not to repeat it.
Failure to comply could trigger a permanent coaching ban at the national level — a potentially career-ending blow.
Sources within Edo’s sports delegation expressed disappointment, calling the incident “a stain on Edo’s proud cycling legacy.”
Fallout: Edo’s Image on the Line
The timing couldn’t be worse.
The Edo cycling team — already under pressure after being edged out by teenage sensation Osaretin Godwin (Edo-born, Team Edo) in the 200m heats — now faces image damage and internal scrutiny.
“This is not who we are,” said a team official.
“We must separate the coach’s actions from the athletes’ efforts.”
Broader Implications: NSF Integrity Tested
This scandal is the first disciplinary thunderclap of Gateway Games 2025 — a festival that has largely been celebrated for smooth operations and record-setting performances.
It now forces national federations to tighten oversight and re-emphasize code of conduct enforcement.
