The Chairman and Executive Committee of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Lagos State Chapter, led by Ambassador Olatutu Oladunni, have responded to a recent press release issued by the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) titled “Creating Investment Through Sport.”
While the association acknowledges and commends efforts aimed at developing and commercializing sports in Lagos State, it has raised serious concerns over what it describes as misinformation regarding its leadership structure.
SWAN Lagos categorically rejected any claim suggesting the existence or recognition of an “Acting Chairman” within the association. It reaffirmed that Ambassador Olatutu Oladunni remains the duly elected and substantive Chairman of the Lagos State Chapter.
According to the statement, Ambassador Oladunni was elected in October 2025 through a process conducted by the SWAN Electoral Committee (SWANECO). The election was described as free, fair, and transparent, with oversight from civil society organizations, law enforcement agencies—including the DSS and the Nigerian Police—and a panel of three lawyers from the Nigerian Bar Association, who also supervised the swearing-in ceremony for a second three-year term set to end in October 2028.
The association emphasized that at no point has the office of the Chairman been vacant, nor has any individual been appointed or recognized in an acting capacity.
SWAN Lagos specifically faulted the alleged recognition of Mr. Aaron Akerejola as Acting Chairman, describing it as misleading and inconsistent with the association’s established leadership structure. It firmly dissociated itself from the claim.
Furthermore, the association advised the Lagos State Sports Commission to refrain from interfering in its internal affairs, stressing the importance of maintaining its independence. It warned that statements or actions capable of causing confusion or division within the association should be avoided.
SWAN Lagos reiterated its commitment to professionalism and its role as a key stakeholder in advancing sports development across the state. It also expressed hope for continued mutual respect between institutions in future engagements.
The statement was signed by Comrade Bello Omotunde, Secretary of SWAN Lagos Chapter.
