By Kwame Bediako
Ignatius Baffour Awuah, the owner of Nsoatreman FC, has been arrested by the Bono Regional Police following violent clashes that erupted at the Nana Kronmansah Park. The incident took place on Sunday during the Matchday 19 fixture against Asante Kotoko, where the atmosphere quickly escalated into chaos as players and officials became embroiled in physical confrontations.
The disturbing altercations resulted in the tragic death of an Asante Kotoko fan, Francis Yaw Frimpong, known affectionately as “Pooley.” Reports indicate that Frimpong was fatally stabbed by unidentified individuals amidst the tumult. The violence has raised serious concerns about the safety of fans and players in the league, prompting swift action from law enforcement and football authorities.
Awuah, who previously held the position of Minister of Employment and Labour Relations and served as the Member of Parliament for the Sunyani West Constituency, now faces charges of conspiracy to commit murder. Authorities allege that he incited the fans, which contributed to the deadly confrontation.
In light of the violence, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has taken decisive measures by indefinitely suspending events at Nana Kronmansah Park. This decision comes even as Nsoatreman FC expressed intentions to withdraw from the topflight league. The GFA has scheduled an emergency meeting with Premier League clubs, stakeholders, and supporters’ groups on Thursday and Friday to address the grim situation and seek solutions to prevent future occurrences.
As investigations continue, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Lydia Donkor has been appointed to lead the inquiry into the incident. Authorities are determined to bring those responsible for this violence to justice, ensuring that the tragic loss of life is not in vain and that the integrity of football in Ghana is upheld.
