Imo SWAN Boycotts Kun Khalifat FC Games Over Treatment of Members, Security Concerns

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

The resolution was reached at the end of the Imo SWAN Congress held on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, following the treatment meted out to some members before Kun Khalifat FC’s Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday Two fixture against Barau FC at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, on Sunday, September 6.

Congress expressed concern that accredited sports journalists who arrived at the stadium to carry out their professional duties were denied access to the venue, allegedly on the directive of the club.

The Congress was also disturbed by the 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. An official of Kun Khalifat too also issued out a threat too. 

Imo SWAN considers the situation unacceptable and maintains that the safety of journalists and other legitimate stakeholders must be guaranteed at every officially sanctioned football match.

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, 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.

The Association calls 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.

Imo SWAN 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.

E-Signed:

Cosmos Chukwuemeka

Chairman

Tunde Liadi

Secretary