Former Super Eagles, Sunday Oliseh has called for stronger action against racism, insisting that the act should be criminalized with jail terms for offenders.
Oliseh argued that racism continues to persist in modern society because the deterrent measures in place are not strong enough.
According to the former Coach, stricter punishment including prison sentences could discourage people from engaging in racist behavior.
“The solution is that it’s not a question of the authorities not doing right or doing wrong. The state itself has to criminalize racism, make it a crime, give sentences, let people serve jail terms.
“If you take that away from people for like a whole month or two months, maybe when he comes out he will no longer be a racist because the deterrent is not strong enough, that’s why it’s still there.”
Racism has remained a major issue affecting many African footballers in Europe, including several Nigerian players.
In a recent interview, Victor Osimhen revealed that he experienced racist abuse during his time at SSC Napoli, which influenced his decision to leave the Italian club.
“I was a victim of racist insults and I made my decision. That’s why I wanted to leave.”
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Meanwhile, Tolu Arokodare has also been targeted by racist abuse this season.
The striker reportedly received monkey emojis and racist messages online after missing a penalty in a 1–0 defeat for Wolverhampton Wanderers against Crystal Palace.
Racism continues to be a significant challenge faced by African footballers across different leagues, with many players and former professionals calling for stronger laws and harsher punishments to combat the issue.
