Arokodare targeted as Nigerian star and African players face fresh racist abuse in Premier League

By Maxwell Kumoye

 

 

The ugly face of racism once again reared its head in the Premier League on Sunday, casting a shadow over Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare and other African stars competing at the highest level of English football.

Arokodare, who featured for Wolverhampton Wanderers in their narrow 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace, was subjected to a wave of racial abuse on social media after the final whistle.

The 25-year-old Nigerian forward who was left out of the Super Eagles party to the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, striving to make his mark in one of the world’s toughest leagues, became the latest target of anonymous online attacks.

Wolves reacted swiftly, condemning the abuse in strong terms and pledging unwavering support for their player. 

The club described themselves as “disgusted” by the multiple instances of abuse directed at Arokodare and reaffirmed their commitment to standing firmly beside him and all footballers forced to endure such treatment.

The Lagos born Arokodare was not alone.

At the Stadium of Light, Sunderland winger Romaine Mundle also faced racial abuse following his side’s 3-1 loss to Fulham. 

Sunderland echoed Wolves’ outrage, branding the behaviour “abhorrent” and confirming they are working with authorities to identify those responsible.

The incidents came less than 24 hours after two more African players, Wesley Fofana and Hannibal Mejbri were racially abused following Chelsea’s draw with Burnley. 

The disturbing pattern has reignited concerns about racism in football, particularly the persistent targeting of Black and African players.

Arokodare, a product of Nigeria’s rich football tradition, the abuse represents a cruel and brutal distraction from his mission to establish himself in England and inspire young players back home. 

Like many African footballers before him, he carries not only the hopes of his club but also the pride of a continent passionate about the beautiful game.

While clubs continue to condemn such acts and pledge cooperation with authorities, the recurring incidents underline a sobering reality, racism remains a stubborn opponent in football.

Yet, in the face of hatred, players like Tolu Arokodare with 2 goals from 24 outing this season and their African counterparts continue to show resilience, letting their performances speak louder than the noise from the shadows.