Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN has condemned in strong terms the manner at which Cross River State Government abandoned its national officer, late Eddie Bekom who incidentally died at a teaching hospital in Abakiliki, Ebonyi state capital.
Bekom, a staff of Cross River State broadcasting Corporation together with his entire family comprising of his wife and three children were gutted by fire triggered by gas explosion at their place of residence in Ikom, barely three weeks ago.
SWAN National President, Comrade Honour Sirawo who spoke when leaders of Abuja-based Sports Writers paid him a condolence visit, disclosed that at the instance of the unexpected incidence, the Governor of the state, Ben Ayade was notified but he didn’t show any concern for the entire family of Bekom.
Apart from Eddie Bekom, SWAN Vice President, South South who died on Sunday, his wife has equally passed on. Their children are still under intensive care.
While expressing deep shock over the devastating occurrence, Comrade Sirawo eulogised Ebonyi state government for accepting to offset their hospital bill after the home state of the veteran journalist did nothing.
“The death of Bekom is not only painful but devastating. He was a dedicated colleague, very humble with sound mind. He died in a manner that was mischievous.
“I have been left to conclude Eddie died because he is a journalist. It goes to show how journalists are treated in Nigeria. Even if God purpose for him to die, it would have been better if cross river government did what it’s supposed to do.
“Less than 48 hours after the fire incidence happened, we reached out to the governor of cross river with their pictures, yet he refused to respond.
“If it were to be a member of the house of assembly or any member of the cabinet, I’m sure the governor would have flee him. Here is a man who always defended the state government anytime we raise any issue against the state for not hosting national sports festival they agreed to host.
“In fact, it was only on the day the cross river commissioner of information reluctantly came to visit them in hospital that our colleague. Bekom died. And most times I’m led to ask, I hope he didn’t bring what killed?,” Sirawo said.
Earlier, FCT SWAN Chairman, Comrade Kayode Adeniyi in company of other excos on the visit expressed sadness over the death of Comrade Eddie and prayed God to accept his soul and that of his wife.
