SWAN Slams Exclusion Of Journalists From Enyimba FC Match

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Abia Chapter, has strongly criticised the decision to bar journalists from covering the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 27 fixture between Enyimba FC and Ikorodu City FC in Aba on Sunday.

Enyimba suffered a 0-1 home defeat to Ikorodu City at the Enyimba International Stadium. The match was reportedly scheduled to be played “behind closed doors” following sanctions imposed on Enyimba by the NPFL.

A statement released on Monday by Kingsley Okwum, Abia SWAN Chairman, and Secretary Bethel Kalu, expressed outrage. Despite assurances from Enyimba’s media department that accredited journalists would be granted access, reporters presenting their accreditation and official ID cards were denied entry.

SWAN described the situation as “embarrassing,” noting that journalists who arrived as early as 2 p.m. were turned away. Enquiries revealed that Match Commissioner Saidu Aliyu had enforced a media blackout, citing the “behind closed doors” directive.

The association condemned this action as a “direct affront to sports journalism and an insult to members of the fourth estate of the realm.”
“We condemn in strong terms the actions of the Match Commissioner, Saidu Aliyu, and all officials involved in this act of disrespect and shame.”

SWAN emphasised that journalists are crucial stakeholders in sports development and should not be treated as “inconsequential.”

“Journalists are not passengers; we are the eyes of the world and key stakeholders in the game. Locking us out while discharging our lawful duties is unacceptable.”

The association has demanded that the Match Commissioner and other officials involved be cautioned and retrained to ensure professional conduct. SWAN highlighted that journalists were granted access during COVID-19 restrictions, deeming the current denial of access “primitive” and damaging to the league’s reputation.

SWAN urged Enyimba’s management to prevent similar incidents in future “behind closed doors” home matches. They have also called on the Nigeria Premier Football League and the Nigeria Football Federation to investigate the matter thoroughly to protect the league’s image.

The association warned that it would not tolerate the “dehumanisation” of its members and would take necessary steps to defend the profession.