The Abia State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has strongly criticised a match official following reports that journalists were denied entry into the stadium during a league clash between Enyimba FC and Ikorodu City FC. The group described the situation as embarrassing and warned that such conduct could damage the credibility of domestic football competitions if not addressed quickly.

In a statement signed by chairman Kingsley Okwun and secretary Bethel Kalu, the association called on the Nigeria Premier Football League and the Nigeria Football Federation to investigate the actions of match commissioner Saidu Yakubu Aliyu and his team. They argued that transparency in league matches depends heavily on the presence and freedom of the press to report events accurately.

According to the association, journalists travelled from different parts of the country to cover the fixture at Enyimba Stadium but were blocked from entering even after presenting valid identification. Officials reportedly insisted the match was to be played behind closed doors, a decision SWAN said should not apply to accredited media professionals.

The Abia SWAN leadership insisted that journalists deserve respect and must be allowed to perform their duties without obstruction. They also urged the management of Enyimba to ensure such an incident does not happen again, stressing that fair treatment of the press is essential to maintaining trust, professionalism, and the reputation of Nigerian football.