Sports Minister leads call for safer football at 24th May 9 Stadium Disaster anniversary

The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, reaffirmed the government's commitment to safety at football stadiums. This statement came during the commemoration of the May 9 Stadium Disaster's 24th anniversary on Friday.

The event was held at the Accra Sports Stadium. Here, 127 fans lost their lives in a tragic incident during a match between Accra Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko in 2001.

Mr. Adams spoke to a gathering of officials, fans, and bereaved families. He stressed that passion for football should never lead to violence. “Football is played with passion, but it must not escalate into violence,” he said.

He expressed concern over the rise of hooliganism in Ghanaian football. The recent death of a supporter known as "Pooley" highlighted this issue.

“The loss of Pooley shouldn't have happened,” he stated. He assured that the government would work with police to punish those responsible. “We will not shield anybody, regardless of status,” he warned.

“Hooliganism has no place in our football,” he continued. “If we misbehave, we risk losing lives.” He emphasized that football should be enjoyed safely and peacefully.

Mr. Okraku noted improvements in infrastructure and safety protocols over the past two decades. “Accra Sports Stadium and Baba Yara Sports Stadium have greatly improved,” he said. He also called for justice for Poli while remembering the 127 souls lost.

Dr. Delali Anku-Adiamah, Managing Director of Accra Hearts of Oak, reminded everyone about that tragic day. “24 years ago, 127 people came here to watch a game… They never returned home,” she said.

She acknowledged reforms in football safety and encouraged traumatized fans to return to games. “We have made significant improvements; it is now very safe,” she urged.

Charles Hammond represented Asante Kotoko at the ceremony and paid tribute to those who died. “Your loved ones will never be forgotten,” he said, emphasizing their lasting impact on history.

He called for unity and peace in stadiums as they reflect on this tragedy. The ceremony concluded with prayers for the departed and renewed commitments from all present to ensure safety in Ghanaian football moving forward.