A new Executive Committee, has taken charge of the running of the Lagos State Chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN).
The New Ecxo emerged after Peaceful Elections of the Chapter, held on October 13, 2022, which has in the last couple of years, been plagued by factional infighting, and litigations, bothering on who controls the affairs of Chapter.
The elections, held amid tight security, the Lagos State Chapter on Tuesday produced new officers, that will take over the administration of the Chapter from the Caretaker Committee, led by Aaron Akerejola of Arise TV.
The elections, which was supervised by the National SWAN Vice President Southwest, Mr. Ajayi Obe, was held at the Lagos SWAN Secretariat inside the National Stadium, Surulere Lagos.
The security operatives (DSS and Police) who were at the venue, told Radio Nigeria Sports that they were there, armed with instructions to ensure that the election was conducted in a peaceful environment.
All four positions on offer were won by candidates who got elected unopposed by the members of Lagos SWAN Congress, who trooped out in their numbers, for the eagerly anticipated poll.
Radio Nigeria Sports also confirmed that the elections were conducted in strict compliance with the new statute of SWAN.
The new executives that will oversee the affairs of Lagos SWAN for the next three years are Ms. Oladunni Olatutu (Chairman/Chairperson); Mr Omotunde Bello, General Secretary; Ms. Ilesanmi Olukemi Treasurer; and Mr Segun Daramola will Serve as Welfare Officer.
The National President of SWAN, Sir Honour Shirawo, who was represented at the Elective Congress by Mr. Ajayi Obe urged the new Chairperson of the Chapter to uphold the tenets of the Statute of SWAN, and draw her empowers from the instrument, while applying discretion and compassion in dealing with issues, bothering on the welfare of members of the Chapter.
The Chairperson was also reminded of the statutory powers she has with her Exco, to bring on board members to fill the three remaining posts – Vice Chairman, Assistant Secretary and Financial Secretary.
The New Exco was also empowered to nominate two ex-officio members who will work with the executive during their three year tenure.
In her acceptance speech, the new Chairperson, Oladunni gave God the glory for ensuring the poll’s success, adding that despite lots of misrepresentations, the Caretaker Executive Committee was able to deliver on the assignment given to it by the National Executive Council of SWAN.
“Today begins another phase that will see the welfare of all Lagos SWAN members being given premium welfare attention,” Oladunni said.
Quoting from the late Bob Marley, Oladunni said: “The people who are trying to make this world worse aren’t taking a day off, how can I”.
In a very short and inspiring speech, the new Chairperson noted that the chaos in the Chapter, have ended, and would soon be laid to rest, for good.
“I appeal to all hiterto aggrieved members to embrace peace and let’s come to a round table to thrash out our remaining differences, with a view to moving Lagos SWAN to greater heights, and the path of prosperity.
Writing by Chinedum Ohanusi; Editing by Annabel Nwachukwu