The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, Imo State Chapter has resolved to boycott all publicity and media activities involving Kun Khalifat FC until the club addresses concerns over the treatment of journalists and safety at match venues.
The decision was reached at the Imo SWAN Congress held on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, following incidents that occurred before the club’s Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, Matchday Two fixture against Barau FC at Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, on Sunday, September 6.
According to the Congress, accredited sports journalists who arrived at the stadium to cover the match were denied access to the venue. The restriction was allegedly carried out on the directive of Kun Khalifat FC management.
Congress members said they were further disturbed by comments attributed to the Chairman of the Imo State Football Association, Barrister Ifeanyi Dike. He was reported to have stated that the restriction was at the instance of the owner of Kun Khalifat FC, and that the safety of a journalist attempting to access the press stand could not be guaranteed.
The Congress also noted that an official of Kun Khalifat FC allegedly issued threats to journalists at the stadium.
In a press release signed byChairman Mr Cosmos Chukwuemeka and Secretary Mr Tunde Liadi, Imo SWAN described the situation as unacceptable.
“The safety of journalists and other legitimate stakeholders must be guaranteed at every officially sanctioned football match,” the statement read.
Congress also expressed concern 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, SWAN unanimously resolved that members should suspend publicity, promotion and media coverage of Kun Khalifat FC and all its activities until further notice.
The Association has called on the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, and the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, to investigate the incident and take appropriate measures 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 release stated.
The Congress maintained that the boycott will remain in force until the issues raised are satisfactorily addressed.
