The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has banned Nigerian Para powerlifter Kafilat Almaruf for three years due to doping violations.
The suspension was imposed after Almaruf committed an anti-doping rule violation (ADRV) in breach of the IPC Anti-Doping Code. According to an IPC statement, the athlete returned an adverse analytical finding (AAF) for an anabolic agent in a urine sample collected out-of-competition on July 11, 2024.
The analysis using Gas Chromatography/Combustion/Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (GC/C/IRMS) revealed the presence of an anabolic agent of exogenous origin. Exogenous anabolic steroids are prohibited under the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) 2024 Prohibited List, classified as S1.1 Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS), and are banned at all times.
Almaruf was provisionally suspended on August 19, 2024, pending the resolution of her case. She accepted the violation and the sanctions proposed by the IPC.
As a result, she is ineligible to compete or participate in any sporting activities, other than authorized anti-doping education or rehabilitation programs, from August 19, 2024, to August 18, 2027.
Additionally, all results obtained by Almaruf from July 11, 2024, when the sample was collected, to August 19, 2024, the start of her provisional suspension, have been disqualified. This includes the forfeiture of any medals, points, or prizes.
The IPC emphasized that athletes are strictly liable for any prohibited substances found in their samples, regardless of intent, negligence, or fault.
The ban also disqualifies Almaruf from representing Nigeria at the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games.
