SWAN condemns physical assault on sports writer

By Our Reporter

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has strongly condemned the physical assault unleashed on a prominent Sports Journalist, Tracy Suo Chappelle, recently in Lagos.

SWAN President, Mr Isaiah Benjamin, who was visibly disturbed by the development while speaking through a statement by the Association’s Secretary-General, Amb. Ikenna Okonkwo, wondered why some individuals would throw caution to the wind and attack a thoroughbred professional with Wazobia FM and Supersport, heading home after the day’s hectic moment at her workplace.

“As a professional body, we totally condemn this disregarding act by some unruly citizens against a responsible and responsive member of the Fourth Estate of the Realm.

“This shouldn’t be condoned whatsoever. After our attention was drawn to the issue at the SWAN National level, I felt so disturbed. As a follow, we equally learnt that the Nigerian Police have swung into action.

“Such prompt action by the country’s leading security agency is highly commendable. We now hope that the full weight of the law will be meted out on the evil operators to serve as a lesson to others.

“The entire sporting fraternity, particularly the sports journalists in Nigeria are watching and following because nothing short of justice is expected on the matter,” he said.

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Meanwhile, SWAN has commiserated with its Kwara state chapter over the demise of a veteran Sports Writer Mr Bashiru Ademola Jimoh who was said to have slumped and died at the weekend after attending a wedding ceremony.

In a condolence message to the chapter on Monday, SWAN Secretary-General extended commiseration by the Association’s President, Mr Benjamin and the entire National Executive Committee.

The SWAN also prayed for the repose of the soul of Mr. Jimoh who is the Elder brother to former SWAN Chairman in Kwara state.