Wolverhampton Wanderers condemns racist abuse towards Nigeria forward Tolu Arokodare

Wolverhampton Wanderers have issued a strongly worded statement denouncing the racist abuse directed at Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare following Sunday’s 1-0 Premier League defeat to Crystal Palace F.C.

Arokodare, who saw his first-half penalty saved during the tightly contested encounter, was subsequently targeted with discriminatory and hateful messages from multiple social media accounts. The disturbing abuse prompted swift condemnation from the Midlands club, who described the behaviour as both “abhorrent and unlawful.”

In an official statement released after the match, Wolves made their stance unequivocally clear:

“Wolves are disgusted by numerous instances of racist abuse, from multiple perpetrators, directed at Tolu Arokodare on social media following today’s fixture against Crystal Palace. There is no place for racism – in football, online, or anywhere in society. We condemn this abhorrent and unlawful behaviour in the strongest possible terms.

Tolu has our full and unwavering support. No player should be subjected to such hatred simply for doing their job.

We stand firmly alongside him, and alongside all footballers who are forced to endure this abuse from anonymous accounts acting with apparent impunity.”

The club’s statement reflects growing frustration within English football over the persistent problem of online racism. Despite ongoing campaigns and repeated calls for stronger action against offenders, players continue to face abuse on digital platforms, often after high-profile moments in matches.

Wolves reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Arokodare and combating discrimination in all its forms, sending a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated. The incident has once again highlighted the urgent need for accountability and stricter enforcement to protect players from hate-fueled attacks.

For Arokodare, the backing of his club and the wider football community serves as a reminder that while setbacks on the pitch are part of the game, racism has no place in it — or anywhere in society.