The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Lagos State Chapter, has rejected claims suggesting the existence of an “Acting Chairman” within the association, insisting that Ambassador Olatutu Oladunni remains its duly elected and substantive chairman.
In a statement signed by the Secretary of SWAN Lagos Chapter, Comrade Bello Omotunde, the association described as misleading a recent press release issued by the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) titled “Creating Investment Through Sport,” which allegedly recognized Mr. Aaron Akerejola as Acting Chairman.
While acknowledging and commending the Lagos State Sports Commission for its efforts toward sports development and commercialization in the state, SWAN Lagos said such recognition was inconsistent with the association’s leadership structure and should be disregarded.
The association stated that Ambassador Oladunni was validly elected in October 2025 through a process conducted by the SWAN Electoral Committee (SWANECO), describing the election as free, fair, and transparent.
It noted that the exercise was monitored by civil society organizations, security agencies including the Department of State Services and the Nigerian Police, as well as a panel of three lawyers from the Nigerian Bar Association, who also supervised the swearing-in ceremony.
According to the statement, the election marked the beginning of Oladunni’s second three-year term, which is expected to run until October 2028.
SWAN Lagos stressed that at no time has the office of the chairman been vacant, nor has any individual been appointed or recognized in an acting capacity.
“The Lagos State Chapter categorically rejects any suggestion of an Acting Chairman and firmly dissociates itself from such claims,” the statement said.
The association further advised the Lagos State Sports Commission to refrain from interfering in its internal affairs, emphasizing the need to preserve its independence and institutional integrity.
It warned against actions or statements capable of causing confusion, division, or unnecessary controversy within the association.
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SWAN Lagos reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism and pledged to continue playing its role as a key stakeholder in promoting sports development across Lagos State.
The association also expressed hope for sustained mutual respect and cordial working relations between both institutions in future engagements.
