NDSF: SWAN Demands Probe Over Alleged Funds Misappropriation For Team Imo

NDSF: SWAN Demands Probe Over Alleged Funds Misappropriation For Team Imo

Precious Oham

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, Imo State Chapter has called on the state government to probe the alleged misappropriation of funds meant for Team Imo at the just concluded Niger Delta Sports Festival, NDSF, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

This was contained in a communique issued at the end of the Imo SWAN April 2025 General Congress and signed by Anthony Ahize, Chairman of the Communique Drafting Committee, among others.

It was gathered that during the meeting, the SWAN members extensively deliberated on several issues, particularly the recently concluded NDSF held in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.

The communique reads: "Team Imo delivered a dismal performance at the NDSF, finishing in the 8th position, out of 9 participating states, despite the alleged early disbursement of over ₦50 million to each state by the NDDC, and an additional ₦10 million to every State Sports Commissioner. This outcome contrasts sharply with Imo’s previous record of excellence in regional sports events.

 "Team Imo’s delayed arrival at the NDSF despite being adequately mobilised by the organisers, the NDDC, significantly lowered athletes' morale and contributed to the team’s underperformance. Imo athletes were poorly kitted, a situation that not only embarrassed the contingent but also tarnished the image of Imo State.

"Basketball and other sports reported that they could not access the allocated funds with which to prepare their teams among other logistics, which directly affected their preparations and overall performance.

 "Governor Hope Uzodinma and the House Committee on Sports of the Imo House of Assembly are urged to initiate a thorough investigation into the disbursement and utilization of the funds released by the NDDC for the NDSF.

"The government should seize the opportunity provided by the NDSF participation to release funds early to ensure that athletes prepare early for the NSF, to avoid a repeat of the poor showing witnessed in Uyo."