Ghanaian Football in Mourning: Kotoko and Hearts Urge Reforms After Nana Pooley’s Tragic Death

Asante Kotoko supporters flocked to Baba Yara Stadium's entrance in tears to pay tribute to Francis Yaw Frimpong, also known as Nana Pooley, who was fatally stabbed during a league game.

The event turned a football game into a violent situation during Kotoko's match against Nsoatreman FC. Pooley's passing has raised serious concerns about hooliganism's rise and security at Ghanaian football stadiums.

Clubs Call for Reform

Ghana's top football rivals, Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak, have banded together to call for immediate changes from the Ghana Football Association (GFA). Among their suggestions are:

• Increased security: At least 100 police officers for high-risk matches, with an additional 20 military officers.
• Neutral security presence: Officers from outside the host region to prevent bias.
• Surveillance cameras: Installed at all league venues to monitor crowd behavior.
• Stricter club licensing: Improved safety standards for stadiums.

The clubs also called for league autonomy, tax exemptions, and transparency in TV rights distribution to help stabilize the Ghana Premier League.

Justice for Nana Pooley

Following the tragedy, the Ghana Police Service has arrested six suspects, including Nsoatreman FC owner and former MP, Ignatius Baffour Awuah.

Meanwhile, Kotoko has received permission from Pooley’s family to hold a one-week observance on February 16, 2025, at Heroes Park.

Both Kotoko and Hearts have suspended football activities until justice is served, while the GFA is under pressure to implement immediate reforms to prevent future tragedies.