Newly appointed Minister of Sports, Kofi Adams, has outlined measures his department will adopt to combat hooliganism, which remains prevalent in Ghanaian football.
The most recent incident occurred in Nsuatre, where an Asante Kotoko fan was tragically stabbed to death during a match between Asante Kotoko and Nsoatreman.
In an interview with Michael Kofi Oduro on Metro Sports, Kofi Adams stressed that such acts contribute to why many investors shy away from supporting the Ghanaian game. He added that his office, in collaboration with the FA, will work to educate fans on the detrimental effects of hooliganism.
“Selfish acts can negatively impact our sports, as they drive sponsors away who don’t want their brands associated with such behavior. So, behave responsibly. You may lose a match today, but with a solid sponsorship, you can bounce back and succeed. We will engage with the fans, provide coaching, and actively promote the fight against hooliganism.”
Kofi Adams also assured that all those involved in the violent acts in Nsuatre will be tracked down and punished to serve as a deterrent to others.
”Regarding the incident in Nsoatre during the Kotoko match on Sunday, we will ensure that anyone found guilty is punished, and that it serves as a deterrent to others in the future who may be recruited to take part in such actions,” he told Michael Kofi Oduro.
Following the tragic events in Nsoatre, the Ghana Premier League has been temporarily halted. Hon. Kofi Adams insisted that security at match centers will be improved before the league resumes, including the installation of CCTV cameras in stadiums and the use of body cameras for police.
“One other thing we are going to insist on is the issue of CCTV cameras in our stadiums. We’ll ensure that these cameras are available so that people know they are being observed, along with the security that will be deployed.”
“When fans know that the police are wearing body cams and recording events as they happen, they will be more cautious. In addition to the CCTV, these body cams will capture events, making it easier to identify anyone who misbehaves and hold them accountable later,” he added.
Meanwhile, Hearts of Oak and Kotoko have submitted proposals to the GFA before the league resumes, including an independent league body, improved security, automatic GFA Executive Council representation, and a fairer share of TV rights.
