*Protesters demand respect for Olatutu Oladunni’s electoral mandate, accuse SWAN national leadership of victimisation
Women and supporters of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Lagos State Chapter, on Thursday staged a peaceful protest at the Lagos State House of Assembly over alleged victimisation and gender discrimination against the chapter’s chairman, Ambassador Olatutu Oladunni.
The protesters called on SWAN National President, Benjamin Isaiah, and National Secretary, Ikenna Okwonkwo, to respect the mandate of Oladunni and her executive committee, while demanding an end to what they described as attempts to undermine the elected state leadership.
The demonstration, held on October 22, 2026, was aimed at drawing the attention of Lagos lawmakers and the public to the lingering leadership dispute within the association, which the protesters said raised concerns about gender equality, internal democracy and adherence to SWAN’s governing constitution.
Oladunni, described by the protesters as the first elected female chairman of the Lagos State chapter, was at the centre of their demand for equal treatment and respect for the electoral mandate of the state executive.
The demonstrators alleged that the chapter’s female-led leadership had faced persistent attempts to undermine its authority, insisting that the election of a woman to lead the association should represent progress in inclusion and equal participation in sports journalism.
They urged the national leadership to refrain from actions they considered discriminatory, intimidating or capable of interfering unjustifiably in the affairs of the Lagos chapter.
The protesters also raised concerns over the alleged misuse of national offices in matters affecting the state chapter, arguing that SWAN officials must exercise their powers within the limits prescribed by the association’s constitution and applicable rules.
According to them, leadership positions should be exercised in the interest of members and the organisation, rather than used to intimidate dissenting voices or undermine elected officers.
They further insisted that internal disagreements should be resolved through established constitutional procedures, transparent processes and fair hearings, rather than through actions that could result in the arbitrary suspension, removal or marginalisation of elected officials.
Among their demands were an end to alleged gender discrimination and victimisation, respect for the Lagos executive’s electoral mandate, strict adherence to due process and an end to what they described as unjustified interference in the chapter’s administration.
The protesters also called for constructive engagement among the parties to resolve the dispute peacefully and preserve unity within the association.
They urged the Lagos State House of Assembly to take cognisance of their concerns and, within its lawful mandate, encourage dialogue and adherence to the principles of fairness, equality and accountable leadership.
The demonstrators maintained that their action was peaceful and intended to promote institutional accountability and protect the interests of SWAN members.
They said the dispute should not be treated merely as a clash of personalities or a struggle for control, but as a matter involving constitutional governance, democratic principles and equal treatment within a professional association.
The protesters warned that alleged discriminatory treatment of women in leadership could discourage female participation in elective positions and undermine efforts to promote inclusion in sports journalism.
They called on Isaiah and Okwonkwo to engage relevant stakeholders, respect the association’s governing rules and work towards a resolution that would safeguard institutional stability.
The national leadership of SWAN was urged to embrace dialogue and demonstrate its commitment to fairness and unity as the dispute continues to draw attention within the association.