Why Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko withheld petition from GFA

Former Hearts of Oak management member, Alhaji Brimah Akanbi, has clarified why the club, along with Asante Kotoko, ultimately decided not to submit a joint petition to the Ghana Football Association (GFA) regarding security at match venues.

The petition was initially intended to advocate for improved safety measures in response to the tragic events at Nsoatreman. However, after discussions with the GFA, both clubs recognized that their concerns were already in line with the association’s existing security plans. As a result, they opted against filing the petition.

Following the unfortunate incident, which led to the death of Kotoko supporter Francis Yaw “Pooley” Frimpong, the Ghana Police Service arrested six individuals, including Nsoatreman FC owner Ignatius Baffour Awuah.

In response, the GFA has taken proactive steps by convening a crucial meeting with Premier League club CEOs to strategize on preventing future acts of violence at football matches.

This tragic event has highlighted the urgent need for stricter security measures at stadiums to safeguard both players and supporters.