SWAN Demands Probe into Alleged Attack on Football Academy Players by Police Operatives

By Ikemefuna Asika.

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN,) Anambra State Chapter has called on the Nigerian Police to investigate the alleged invasion of Maureen Madu Kiddies Football Academy, Ozubulu, Ekwusigo Local Government Area by police operatives.

Madu, a pioneer member and one of the most decorated Super Falcons Stars, had alleged that personnel suspected to be operatives of Anti Cult Unit Ukpo invaded her academy on October 9th, 2024, beat up players, smashed and seized their phones before taking her away in handcuffs like a common criminal.

The two-time Olympian said it was a case of a single parent who handed over his daughter to her for summer coaching and later leveled allegations of Armed Gangsterism, Attempted Child Trafficking and Threat to Life against her.

SWAN, Anambra State Chapter in the Statement signed by Chimezie Anaso and Uche Ndeke, Chairman and Secretary called on the Police hierarchy in Anambra State to investigate the matter and ensure justice was done to all parties.

SWAN noted that Maureen Madu had paid her dues to Nigeria’s football with five Nations Cup, two Olympics, four World Cup and over 100 appearances for the country as such did not deserve the humiliation of arrest in handcuffs before the public.

“While we may not have the details of events leading to the incident, SWAN wishes to condemn the dehumanisation and arrest of one of the icons of female football in Nigeria in the person of Maureen Madu and battery of young footballers

“The report that she was taken away in handcuffs with two hands behind her like a common criminal, the children in camp beaten and left with varying degrees of injuries is most unfortunate and calls for condemnation by all.

“Having played the game and enjoyed the fame, Maureen Madu decided to come to Anambra and set up a Football Academy as a way of giving back to the society and open opportunities for Nigerian girls in football

“She should be commended, encouraged and not be humiliated, we therefore call on the Police authority in Anambra State to take special interest in the matter, investigate it thoroughly and ensure just is done,” it said.

SWAN also called on Anambra State government and sports stakeholders to wade into the matter to ensure that sports administrators, sportsmen, sportswomen and budding athletes were protected in the state at all times.