Dreams FC General Manager, Ameenu Shardow, has called on Ghana Premier League clubs to strictly enforce existing rules and regulations to eliminate crowd violence at football matches.
His appeal follows the tragic events that unfolded during the Matchday 19 clash between Nsoatreman and Asante Kotoko at Nana Kronmansah Park, where violent incidents led to the death of Kotoko fan Francis Yaw “Pooley” Frimpong, who was fatally stabbed by unknown assailants.
In response to the incident, the Ghana Police Service has arrested six individuals linked to Pooley’s murder.
Meanwhile, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has taken steps to address the issue, holding a crucial meeting with Premier League club CEOs to discuss measures to prevent future violence.
Speaking after the meeting, Ameenu Shardow emphasized the urgent need for clubs to comply with league regulations to create a safer football atmosphere.
“It is simply about enforcing the rules and regulations because, over the years, I think we, as industry players, have failed to live up to the regulations we collectively accepted and adopted. Going forward, we have to ensure strict compliance and adherence to the rules and regulations,” he stated.
He further highlighted that the violence witnessed in Nsoatreman was a result of continued disregard for these regulations, stressing the need for all clubs to unite in reinforcing compliance measures.
“It affects all of us. Everything that culminated in what happened in Nsoatreman is the result of, for lack of a better word, non-compliance with the rules and regulations we set for ourselves. So, all of us need to come together to reinforce our position on compliance.”
As part of its response, the GFA has also scheduled an emergency meeting with representatives of supporter groups from all Premier League clubs to address fan behavior and security concerns at match venues.