Nigerian Para powerlifter gets 30-months ban

The International Paralympic Committee has issued a 30 months ban to former Paralympic champion and Nigerian Para powerlifter Paul Kehinde for committing an anti-doping rule violation.

In a statement by the IPC, Kehinde tested positive for prohibited substances following a urine sample provided out-of-competition on 9 March 2020. Making this his second ADRV.

The substances; hydrochlorothiazide and its metabolite and amiloride are included on the World Anti-Doping Agency 2020 Prohibited List under the class S5 Diuretics and Masking Agents.

The IPC’s Anti-Doping Director James Sclater noted that the athlete could have avoided the ban if he had followed laid down rules.

He said, “This case may have been avoided if the athlete had followed the rules for Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs) and verified that his prescribed medication was prohibited.

“The IPC would like to strongly remind all athletes who require the use of a prohibited substance or method, for a diagnosed medical condition, to apply for a TUE in accordance with the WADA ISTUE requirements.”

Due to his violation, Kehinde will not be able to compete from 9 March 2020 to 8 September 2022. 

The statement also noted that, “results obtained by the Athlete from the date the sample was collected will also be disqualified, with all resulting consequences, including forfeiture of any medals, points and prizes.”