In response to recent incidents of violence and hooliganism, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has taken decisive action to improve safety and security at football stadiums contained in a 19-page document.
A meeting held at the GFA Secretariat on February 6, 2025, brought together representatives from the Association and all 18 clubs of the Ghana Premier League.
During this meeting, attendees agreed to adopt Enhanced Matchday Safety and Security Protocols. The protocols aim to prevent incidents of violence and ensure a safe environment for players, officials, and spectators.
Asante Kotoko SC and Accra Hearts of Oak SC submitted a proposal to the GFA for review on February 7, 2025. The Association assured both clubs that their request would be considered alongside previous suggestions made by other clubs.
The GFA and clubs also met with the Inspector General of Police, resulting in approximately 33 action points proposed to enhance safety and security. Some of these actions have been implemented immediately.
Notably, the Inspector General of Police announced the establishment of:
Sports Police Unit: A specialized unit to oversee sports-related policing.
Regional Sports Officers: Primary contacts for sports events in each region.
Sports Security training: Included in the training manual of the Police Training Academy.
The GFA will collaborate with Regional Sports Officers to ensure safety and security during matches. Any criminal activity at football matches will be treated as a serious offense, with individuals subjected to the Ghana Criminal Justice System.
The Association has engaged with various stakeholders, including Malta Guinness Women’s Premier League clubs, Access Bank Division One League clubs, and Supporters Groups of Premier League clubs.
Following these engagements, the Executive Council of the GFA approved the Enhanced Matchday Safety and Security Protocols 2025. These protocols will be applied strictly, with sanctions enforced accordingly to ensure safety and security at match venues.
The GFA reminds all participants, supporters, and stakeholders that criminal acts at football matches will be handled by the Ghana Police Service through the Ghana criminal justice system.
Background
The Ghanaian football community is in mourning following the tragic death of Nana Pooley, a devoted supporter of Asante Kotoko, who was stabbed to death in Nsoatre. The incident occurred on match day 19 of the Ghana Premier League, when Kotoko played away to Nsoatreman FC.
Nana Pooley’s untimely demise has sent shockwaves throughout the football fraternity, with fans, players, and officials from various clubs expressing their condolences and outrage over the senseless act of violence.
Asante Kotoko, in particular, is reeling from the loss of one of its most passionate and dedicated supporters. The club has released a statement condemning the incident and calling for justice to be served.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has also weighed in on the matter, issuing a statement to condemn the violence and pledge its support to the family of the deceased.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has suspended the Ghana Premier League following a tragic incident that resulted in the death of the fan.
The suspension is aimed at allowing the GFA to engage with stakeholders and discuss measures to curb violence in the game. The association has also initiated an emergency meeting with the leadership of supporters’ groups and clubs to address safety concerns
Ghana’s leading clubs Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko release a joint statement seeking drastic security measures before the resumption of the league.
The Ghana Police Service has launched an investigation into the matter and has assured the public that those responsible will be brought to justice.
The Service has made a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the murder of Asante Kotoko supporter Nana Pooley, arresting 7 suspects in connection with the crime including owner of Nsoatreman FC and former Labour and Employment Minister, Ignatius Baffour Awuah.
