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The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Imo State chapter, has decided to boycott all advertising 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 ahead of Kun Khalifat FC’s matchday two of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) 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 stadium, allegedly on the club’s directive.
The Congress was also troubled by the response attributed to the President of the Imo State Football Association, Barrister Ifeanyi Dike, who was quoted as saying that the restriction was made at the instance of the owner of Kun Khalifat FC. He was also reported to have said that the safety of a journalist attempting to access the press gallery could not be guaranteed. A Kun Khalifat official also issued a threat.
Imo SWAN considers the situation unacceptable and maintains that the safety of journalists and other legitimate stakeholders must be guaranteed in every officially sanctioned football match.
Congress also believes that the Imo State FA, as the body responsible for the administration of football in the state, has a responsibility to ensure adequate arrangements for security and access to matches within its jurisdiction.
Accordingly, Congress unanimously resolved that members of Imo SWAN suspend advertising, 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 that adequate 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 effect until the issues raised by Congress are satisfactorily addressed.
Electronically signed:
Cosmo Chukwuemeka
President
Tunde Liadi
Secretary
