SWAN Backs Bauchi Government's Dissolution of Wikki Tourists Management, Seeks Probe into Relegation

SWAN Backs Bauchi Government's Dissolution of Wikki Tourists Management, Seeks Probe into Relegation

By Admin 

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Bauchi State Chapter, has commended the Bauchi State Government for dissolving the management committee of Wikki Tourists Football Club following the team's relegation from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) at the end of the 2025/2026 season.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Bala Bawaji, and Secretary, Elizabeth Kah, the association described the government's decision as timely and necessary, noting that it reflects a commitment to repositioning the club, restoring public confidence, and laying a solid foundation for an immediate return to the top flight.

Wikki Tourists were relegated to the Nigeria National League (NNL) just one season after securing promotion back to the NPFL.

SWAN also called for a comprehensive investigation into the factors that contributed to the club's poor performance despite what it described as substantial financial and administrative support from the Bauchi State Government throughout the season.

According to the association, the investigation should examine allegations of match-fixing, players' welfare, the working relationship between the supervising ministry and the club's management, as well as the club's financial administration and other issues that may have contributed to the team's relegation. It said such a review would help prevent a recurrence.

The association noted that the state government met its obligations to the club by increasing its monthly allocation and, in a final effort to preserve the team's NPFL status, constituted a Rescue Team during the closing stages of the season to support the management committee. Despite these interventions, the club was unable to avoid relegation.

SWAN also welcomed the appointment of former Bauchi State Director of Sports, Alhaji Haruna Bako, as the Interim Sole Administrator of Wikki Tourists Football Club. The association expressed confidence in his experience and capacity to reposition the club ahead of the forthcoming Nigeria National League season.

It urged the Interim Sole Administrator to ensure a seamless handover of the club's operations, assets, records, and liabilities while implementing reforms aimed at restoring discipline, professionalism, and competitiveness within the team.

SWAN reaffirmed its support for the Bauchi State Government's efforts to revive the club and expressed optimism that, under effective leadership and with the necessary reforms, Wikki Tourists will secure a swift return to the Nigeria Premier Football League.