Nigerians react as Okon clinches gold in thrilling 400m at World Athletics U20 Championships

South Africa’s Udeme Okon clinched the gold medal in the 400m final at the 2024 World Athletics U20 Championships held in Lima, Peru.

In a stunning display of determination, Okon made a remarkable comeback, finishing with a time of 45.69 seconds.

The victory, which quickly went viral on social media, sparked reactions across both Nigeria and South Africa, as Okon has ties to both nations.

Despite recent tensions between the two countries, highlighted by the controversy surrounding Miss Chidinma Adetshina, Okon’s achievement was celebrated on both sides.

The 2024 World Athletics U20 Championships, previously known as the World Junior Championships, is a prestigious international competition that showcases the best young talent in athletics.

The event is ongoing in Lima, Peru, from August 27 to 31, 2024.

Okon’s profile on his Instagram page, #udeme_sprints, shows both the Nigerian and South African flags, signifying his ties to both nations, News360 Nigeria also reports.

World Athletics in early Friday video posts on X revealed this.

It read, “WHAT. A. COMEBACK. ‘s Udeme Okon wins the 400m final in great style with 45.69.

“It’s Okon’s moment Udeme Okon claims the 400m gold with an incredible comeback in the home straight 45.69 ”

Meanwhile, several reactions followed the post from South Africans and Nigerians alike.

Nigerians-South Africans tension

Recall the recent controversy surrounding Miss Chidinma Adetshina, a South African-born model of Nigerian and Mozambican descent, which sparked significant debate and tension between South Africans and Nigerians.

Adetshina’s eligibility to compete in the Miss South Africa pageant was questioned after revelations about her dual citizenship.

Critics argued that her participation undermines the opportunities for South African-born candidates, fueling xenophobic sentiments.

As the scrutiny over her citizenship and background intensified, Adetshina withdrew from the Miss South Africa competition, citing concerns for her safety.

Following her withdrawal, she was invited to compete in the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant, which has further complicated the situation given the uncertainty around her Nigerian citizenship status.

However, it seems reactions from the South Africans do not have an issue with Okon and his gold medal.

X users react

An X user, Tebogo Koma with the handle #TheGeopol said, “That name doesn’t sound South African “Udeme Okon”, but if he’s legal, then we fully support him.”

Another person with the name, Saint-mykel and handle #Saint_mykel88 posted, “Na Akwa Ibom boy be that ooo lol.”

A female X user, Tumishang Mashabela with the account #tumimashabela, said, “No identify fraud, I hope. Nigerian first- proudly South African. Congratulations, young man.”

Another user, Azanian Authi with handle, #Landed_13928, “His brother Ime Okon will play for Bafana Bafana ahh thank you Naija.”

Also, an X user, Chinonso James with handle #Chinons72025813 tweeted, “I told you, Nigerians are unstoppable, we are everywhere, we make sure we get involve, well done my boy.”

Maqhobozakwasani with the handle #NjabuloQhobs, on the other hand, said, “That Green n White Flag will come n claim our own Okon…..!!!! This war between 2 countries will never end and it’s gonna be a long day.”

Also reacting, Navneet K Singh with the handle, Navneet_K_Singh, “What a stunning finish by Udeme Okon! The way he powered through in the home straight was nothing short of sensational. South Africa has a new star on the track! #U20Championships #Athletics”

World Athletics

News360 Nigeria reports that World Athletics, the global athletic governing body, oversees disciplines like track and field, cross-country, road running, and race walking. Established in 1912 as the International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF), it rebranded in 2019 to modernise its image and expand its global appeal.

Headquartered in Monaco, World Athletics sets the sport’s rules, organises major events like the World Athletics Championships, and maintains world records.

The organisation is committed to promoting athletics worldwide, supporting athletes and national federations, and fostering the development of the sport at all levels.