Ethiopian runner Urisa Kebene made history as the first woman to cross the finish line at the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon in Nigeria.
The 25-year-old athlete will also be awarded a prize of $50,000 for her achievement.
However, a pictorial representation of her win has caused outrage among Nigerians.
The image shows a man placing his hands on one of Kebene’s breasts, sparking criticism and concern from social media users.
Some questioned if the photo had been photoshopped, while others urged the man to adjust his hand. Despite the controversy, many still congratulated Kebene on her victory.
Singer, Timi Dakolo wrote on his Instagram page “His hand”.
Another Instagram user, @yemythhy wrote, “Is that the guy real hand or they photoshopped it there”.
On her part, @temitope.farombi congratulated the winner, however questioned the position of the hand. “Congratulations to the winner, Bros hand is not in the right place. The waist should be better”.
Another Instagram user, balo_ng “Brother on white, abeg adjust your hand”.
In the 2023 edition of the marathon, held in Lagos, Ethiopia’s Alemenseh Guta finished first, followed by Kebene Urisa in second place, and Kenya’s Naomi Maiyo in third.
The race covered a distance of 42 kilometers, starting at the National Stadium in Surulere and ending at Eko Atlantic City in Victoria Island.
This year’s event attracted over 81 elite runners from around the world.
According to the Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, the owners of the Lagos City Marathon, Chief Bukola Olopade, the United Nations, has also confirmed the participation of 15 refugee runners among the rich field of runners that will be participating in the 9th Lagos City Marathon.
