The Member of Parliament for Berekum West, Dickson Duah, has called on the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and the National Sports Authority (NSA) to implement stricter measures to curb hooliganism in Ghanaian football.
His appeal follows recent incidents of violence, including the tragic events during the Matchday 19 clash between Nsoatreman FC and Asante Kotoko at the Nana Kronmansh Park, where a Kotoko fan, Francis Frimpong, popularly known as ‘Nana Pooley,’ lost his life.
Just two weeks later, another violent incident occurred during a Division One game between Elmina Sharks and Swedru All Blacks at the Ndoum Sports Stadium, where match officials were attacked by players and team officials of Sharks.
Addressing Parliament on Wednesday, Duah stressed the urgent need for preventive measures to deter acts of hooliganism in Ghanaian football.
“I urge the Ghana Football Association and the National Sports Authority to put in place stringent safety measures to prevent such occurrences in the future,” he said.
“This includes enhanced security at stadiums, strict enforcement of disciplinary actions against violent conduct, and intensified public education on sportsmanship.”
Duah also expressed his condolences to the bereaved family of the Kotoko fan who lost his life.
“At this grieving moment, permit me to extend my heartfelt and deepest condolences to the family of the deceased. No family should endure such pain over a football match,” he stated.
In response to the growing concerns, the Ghana Premier League has been temporarily suspended, while the GFA has announced new enhanced Matchday Safety and Security Protocols to address security lapses during games.