Kotoko and Hearts join forces to push for improved safety in Ghana Premier League after violent clash at Nsoatreman

Asante Kotoko and Accra Hearts of Oak have joined forces to demand improved security at Ghana Premier League matches following the tragic death of a Kotoko fan, Nana Pooley.

Their joint statement, released on February 5, 2025, comes ahead of a meeting with the Ghana Football Association (GFA), which is scheduled for today.

In a show of unity, the two rival clubs have prepared a detailed position paper urging the GFA to introduce stricter security measures to prevent such incidents.

They stressed that Nana Pooley’s death underscores the need for better safety at match venues.

The statement, issued by Kotoko’s Interim Management Committee (IMC) and Hearts of Oak’s Board and Management, called for cooperation with the government, law enforcement, and other stakeholders to make football safer.

Hearts of Oak also extended condolences to Kotoko and pledged to work together to prevent future tragedies.

The clubs will present their recommendations to the GFA’s Executive Committee, pushing for urgent action to address security concerns in the league.

Read the statement below:

HEARTS OF OAK / ASANTE KOTOKO

For Immediate Release

Accra - February 5, 2025

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.