Imo SWAN resolve to boycott Kun Khalifat’s games

By Johnkennedy Uzoma

The Imo State chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), has resolved to boycott all publicity and media activities involving Kun Khalifat FC until further notice.

Arising from their September monthly congress held at the Dan Anyiam Sports Stadium on Tuesday with a Communique jointly endorsed by the Imo State SWAN Chairman, Cosmos Chukwuemeka, and the Secretary, Tunde Liadi, the body resolved to withdraw all its media coverage of the club following the treatment meted out to some members during the NPFL match day two fixture between Kun Khalifat FC Owerri and Barau FC at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri.

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The congress raised serious concerns that accredited sports journalists who arrived at the stadium to carry out their professional duties were allegedly threatened or attacked and denied access to the venue on the club’s directive.

The congress condemned a disturbing response attributed to the Chairman of the Imo State Football Association, Barrister Ifeanyi Dike, who reportedly stated that the restriction was at the instance of the owner of Kun Khalifat FC.

He was further reported to have said that the safety of a journalist attempting to access the press stand could not be guaranteed.

This statement on the threat to life was equally corroborated by an official of Kun Khalifat
Imo SWAN, having considered the situation unacceptable, maintains that the safety of journalists and other legitimate stakeholders must be guaranteed at every officially sanctioned football match.

The congress also believes that the Imo State FA, as the body responsible for football administration in the state, has a responsibility to ensure proper security and access arrangements at matches within its jurisdiction.

Consequently, the congress unanimously resolved that members of Imo SWAN should suspend publicity, promotion and media coverage of Kun Khalifat FC and its activities until further notice.

Imo SWAN called on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) to investigate the incident and ensure appropriate measures are taken to prevent a recurrence.

The body stated that it remains committed to the promotion and development of sports in the state, but insists that sports journalists must be treated with respect and allowed to carry out their legitimate duties without intimidation, harassment or threats to their safety.

“The boycott will remain in force until the issues raised by the Congress are satisfactorily addressed,” the statement added.

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