Kotoko IMC chief Nana Apinkra cautions fans' against acting on hearsay over Pooley death

Asante Kotoko Interim Management Committee Chairman, Nana Akwasi Apinkra Awuah, has cautioned against acting on rumors amid the unfortunate death of devoted fan Francis Yaw Frimpong, better known as Pooley.Pooley, an avid supporter of the biggest Ghanaian club, was cruelly stabbed during his side's Premier League match at Nsoatreman FC last week.The dastardly act has sparked a wave of concerns and called into sharp focus the need for reforms to safeguard lives and property during a football match.Joined by the sworn rivals Hearts of Oak, the two giants have signed a joint statement demanding immediate reforms to protect domestic football.Addressing sombering supporters during a vigil at the Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday February 9, 2025, the IMC chief cautioned against acting on hearsay as Police continue with investigations.It's been a week since Pooley's death. The matter is with national security. The IGP has promised to help us. We are pleased with what he has done in the past week, he stated.Don't act on what you have heard and what someone has done. Let's allow the law to delve into the matter. I promise you we will not allow this matter to go without answers. If you know anyone who has information and can help in the matter, bring it to the Kotoko Secretariat so we can add to the other findings we have.

In response to the incident, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has banned Nsoatreman from using their home venue, Nana Koramansah Park, until further notice while an investigation is conducted.

Additionally, the GFA postponed this weekend round of league matches.

People have called for stricter security measures at match venues across the country for a league that has lost its appeal in the last few years.

Despite previous sanctions aimed at improving safety, such as fines issued in 2022 for Nsoatreman and Accra Young Wise for breaching safety regulations, and a seven-game home ban handed to Skyy, violence remains a problem.

Attacks on match officials and opposing teams persist, raising concerns about the effectiveness of current security measures.

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