24th anniversary of May 9 disaster held at Accra Sports Stadium

A solemn ceremony took place on Friday, May 9, 2025. It was held at the Accra Sports Stadium. This event marked the 24th anniversary of the May 9th Stadium Disaster. This disaster is considered Ghana’s darkest day in football history.

On May 9, 2001, a Premier League match occurred between Accra Hearts of Oak and Kumasi Asante Kotoko. Crowd disturbances escalated during the game. Police responded by firing tear gas into the stands. This led to a stampede that killed 127 spectators and injured many others.

Since then, annual events have honored the victims and reflected on lessons learned. This year's remembrance included key stakeholders from Ghanaian football, government officials, club representatives, and victims' families.

In his keynote address, Minister for Youth and Sports Hon. Kofi Adams spoke about safety improvements at sports venues. He promised ongoing collaboration with football stakeholders to prevent future tragedies.

GFA President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku addressed the audience on behalf of football leaders. He described the disaster as a painful moment in Ghana's sports history. He emphasized that honoring victims means committing to prevention.

"The best way to honor those we lost is to ensure it never happens again," he stated. He mentioned enhanced infrastructure and regulations focused on fan safety as crucial steps forward.

Simeon-Okraku also highlighted new Enhanced Safety and Security Protocols introduced by the GFA. He praised ongoing developments in football infrastructure across Ghana.

He reflected on the recent loss of Asante Kotoko supporter Pooley in Nsoatre. He urged the Ghana Police Service to intensify efforts for justice regarding this incident.

Executive Council Members Samuel Aboabire and Gideon Fosu attended alongside other officials like GHALCA Chairman John Ansah and GFA Chief of Staff Michael Osekere.

Representatives from both clubs involved in the tragedy delivered messages of solidarity. Hearts of Oak’s delegation included Managing Director Delali Adiamah and former Chairman Harry Zakour. Kotoko was represented by Marketing Manager Charles Kwaku Hammond.

Also present were Yaw Ampofo Ankrah from the National Sports Authority, his deputies, families of victims, and members of the Ghana Supporters Union.

The ceremony concluded with traditional prayers and wreath-laying at the May 9th Monument to honor those who died. Wreaths were laid by various dignitaries including the Minister of Youth and Sports and GFA President.

As everyone paused to remember those lost, one message stood out: May 9th must never happen again.