By; JACOB ONJEWU DICKSON
The Kwara State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has addressed recent comments made by Yinka Fafoluyi, also known as Solace, the Senior Special Assistant on New Media to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
SWAN emphasized that, as a professional organization, it operates independently of political affiliations and remains committed to the ethical standards outlined in its constitution.
In recent statements on a popular sports WhatsApp platform, Solace made several inaccurate remarks about SWAN.
These comments not only misrepresent the association, but also attempt to discredit its professional integrity.
Solace’s claims included unwarranted criticisms of SWAN and unprofessional attacks on individual members, which are contrary to the association’s values.
“SWAN wishes to clarify that its stance on recent issues, such as the dispute between the State Sports Commission and the Kwara Football Association regarding the exclusion of football from the Kwara team at the 8th National Youth Games, reflects its impartiality and dedication to fair journalism,” SWAN said.
The association even formed a committee to address and resolve these differences, demonstrating its commitment to a balanced perspective rather than taking sides.
Moreover, the Executive Chairman of the State Sports Commission, Mallam Bolakale Adisa Mogaji, can attest to SWAN’s consistent efforts to positively highlight the government’s initiatives in the realm of sports.
“SWAN respects the role of political communicators like Solace, acknowledging their duty to support government viewpoints.
“However, it is crucial for such professionals to engage with SWAN and its members with a clear understanding of its role and to maintain a respectful and accurate discourse. Attacks on SWAN’s professionalism and its members are misplaced and do not align with constructive dialogue,” the association said.
