Ibrahim Sannie Daara has urged the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to reassess its charges against Elmina Sharks owner, Dr. Paa Kwesi Nduom, following a violent incident at the Nduom Sports Stadium.
The controversy arose during a match on Sunday, where All Blacks were awarded a penalty and won 1-0. After the game, an altercation broke out with the referee.
Dr. Nduom expressed his dissatisfaction with the officiating on social media, leading the GFA to charge him with violating Division One League regulations and the GFA Disciplinary Code.
The GFA also accused Dr. Nduom of inciting violence among players, officials, and fans, resulting in misconduct and tarnishing the reputation of the game.
However, Daara, a former spokesperson for the GFA, stressed the important role business figures like Dr. Nduom play in advancing football in Ghana. He urged the GFA to reconsider pursuing charges, pointing out that charging individuals is not always the best course of action.
Daara further noted that Dr. Nduom had tried to calm the crowd on the pitch, suggesting that a more patient and diplomatic approach was needed to resolve the issue.
“We need people like Dr. Paa Kwesi Nduom to invest in our game,” he said on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.
“Regardless of what has happened, it shouldn’t always be about charging people. I’ve heard an account that he even went on the pitch to calm the fans, so let’s exercise patience in decision-making.”
The Senior CAF Media Officer also warned that if Dr. Nduom withdrew his support, it could have serious repercussions for the Division One League.
“What if he gets frustrated and dissolves the team? He has his own stadium, and the GFA should consider these things. Any decision he makes will affect the Division One League, and we must also remember that he has previously sponsored the league,” he added.
“Maybe he is wrong, but sometimes, diplomacy is needed to resolve such issues,” Daara concluded.
Dr. Nduom has until Wednesday, February 19, 2025, to formally respond to the charges.