The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ogun State Chapter, has condemned the reported destruction of property at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Kuto, Abeokuta, during a CAF Champions League encounter involving MC Algiers.

The association’s chairman, Comrade Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji, stated the chapter’s position in Abeokuta, describing the incident as unfortunate and contrary to the principles of sportsmanship, discipline and peaceful coexistence.

Ogunsiji called on the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to investigate the incident and impose appropriate disciplinary measures on anyone found culpable, in line with the organisation’s regulations.

He also urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ogun State Government, security agencies and the management of the sports arena to work together to establish the circumstances surrounding the reported destruction and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

The SWAN chairman emphasised that sporting events should serve as platforms for promoting unity, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence rather than violence and the destruction of public property.

He further called for improved security arrangements and more effective crowd-control measures at future sporting events to prevent a recurrence.

Ogunsiji also advocated a thorough assessment of the affected facilities and the restoration of any damaged infrastructure, stressing that protecting public assets was essential to the successful hosting of major sporting competitions.

He urged football clubs, supporters and match organisers to encourage responsible behaviour among fans, insisting that violence and vandalism should have no place in football.

The SWAN Ogun chairman reaffirmed the association’s commitment to promoting responsible sports journalism, peaceful sporting engagements and the overall development of football in Nigeria.