By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Anambra State Chapter, has called on the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun to investigate the alleged invasion of ex Falcon player, Maureen Madu Kiddies Football Academy in Ozubulu, Ekwusigo Local Government Area of Anambra State by some security personnel acting on an unconfirmed petition.

Madu, had over the weekend alleged that security operatives suspected to be from Anti Cult Unit Ukpo, invaded her academy, beat up her players, smashed and seized their phones before taking her away in handcuffs.

She explained that it was a case of a parent who handed over his daughter to her for summer coaching in football, but later leveled allegations of Armed Gangsterism, Attempted, Child Trafficking and Threat to Life against her.

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

SWAN regretted the ugly incident, saying 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, hence does not deserve the humiliation of arrest in handcuffs before the public.

The statement reads in part: ?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 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.

The Association further 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.

Update news