Rivals Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak have jointly announced their rare position petitioning the Ghana Football Association for an improved security protocols in the domestic football.
This has become necessary after an ardent supporter of Asante Kotoko, Francis Yaw Frimpong (Nana Pooley) tragically died following fans unrest that marred a Ghana Premier League game involving Nsoatreman FC and Asante Kotoko at Nana Koramansah Park last Sunday.
The Ghana Football Association have already notified all Premier League clubs CEOs of a crunch engagement with the FA today in Accra to deliberate matters of security and safety in the Ghana Premier League.
The statement reads: “Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko SC to present Joint position paper to the FA – calls for enhanced security in Ghana premier league, make other demands.”
“Accra Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko SC have jointly announced the preparation of a detailed position paper for the Ghana Football Association (GFA), emphasizing crucial recommendations to elevate the Ghana Premier League.”
“In a strategic meeting held in Accra, involving Asante Kotoko’s Interim Management Committee (IMC) and selected members from the Hearts of Oak Board and Management, both clubs engaged in a thorough discussion on key issues facing the league.”
“The two esteemed teams have underscored their unified dedication to tackling the pressing concern of security at match venues throughout the league.”
“This announcement comes ahead of their anticipated engagement with the Executive Committee of the GFA on Thursday 6th February, 2025.”
“According to the clubs, the tragic and unfortunate incident involving the loss of Nana Pooley, a die-hard Asante Kotoko fan, is a poignant reminder of the paramount importance of ensuring the safety of all football fans.”
”Both Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko SC are resolute in their belief that such incidents must be prevented in the future.”
”The Hearts Board used the occasion to wish Kotoko condolences and assured them that, Hearts of Oak would work with them and other stakeholders to ensure that the death would not be in vain.”
“Hearts of Oak and Kumasi Asante Kotoko are urging the adoption of enhanced security protocols and other measures, and are eager to collaborate with all relevant stakeholders, including Government, the GFA, law enforcement agencies, and dedicated supporters.”
“Their shared goal is to ensure that football remains a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.”
“The clubs earnestly call upon the Ghana Football Association to take prompt and decisive action on the recommendations outlined in their position paper.”
Meanwhile, the FA has temporarily put the league on hold at allow for proper address of the situation. Ghana Police Service have apprehended five suspects to assist in the ongoing investigations into the death incidence after the FA made an official complaints.
