Super Eagles forward Tolu Arokodare has become the latest Premier League player to suffer racist abuse on social media, in what campaigners described as an “appalling weekend” for English football.
The Wolverhampton Wanderers striker received a series of racist messages following his side’s 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace, a match in which he had a first-half penalty saved before a late winner decided the contest.
Screenshots shared by Arokodare and Wolves revealed abusive messages from anonymous accounts.
“It’s still unbelievable to me that we’re playing in a time where people have so much freedom to communicate such racism without any consequences,” Arokodare wrote on Instagram.
“These individuals should have no place in our game and collectively we have to take action to punish everyone who taints the sport like this.”
Wolves condemned the abuse as “disgusting” and “abhorrent,” pledging full support to the Nigerian international while working with authorities and social media platforms to identify those responsible.
Other Players Targeted
Arokodare was not alone.
- Romaine Mundle of Sunderland received racist messages after a 3-1 defeat to Fulham. The 22-year-old reportedly deleted his Instagram account following the abuse.
- Hannibal Mejbri of Burnley and Wesley Fofana of Chelsea were also targeted after their sides’ 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge.
Anti-discrimination body Kick It Out said the incidents highlight a persistent problem in the sport.
“This has been an appalling weekend after four players called out the racist abuse they’ve received on social media,” the group said. “The message from them is loud and clear: action must follow.”
The Premier League condemned the abuse and warned that perpetrators could face bans and legal prosecution.
Despite ongoing anti-racism campaigns and partnerships with authorities and tech companies, online abuse remains a recurring issue — prompting renewed calls for stricter enforcement and accountability.
