The General Secretary of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Prosper Harrison Addo, has debunked rumors claiming that Accra Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko have been banned from using their home venues. He clarified that after a thorough review by the GFA Club Licensing Committee, certain security concerns were identified at the Legon Sports Stadium and Baba Yara Stadium that need to be addressed.
Addo reassured the public that the GFA is working closely with the Ministry of Sports, the affected clubs, and stadium facility managers to promptly resolve the identified issues. In an interview on Asempa FM, he explained, “There have been issues with some of the safety zones, thus requiring more police personnel, maybe fifty or more on both sides, to prevent supporters from accessing those areas. The primary aim is to build a metal gate to block people. We are working with the club and the Ministry of Sports, so we will need all parties to agree on the security protocols.”
Furthermore, Addo clarified that both Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko have the freedom to decide whether they would use the venues this weekend or opt for an alternative. He emphasized, “So, the club will decide whether to play there or at a different venue this weekend. We urge everyone to remain calm; nobody has banned Hearts of Oak from using the Legon Stadium and the Accra Sports Stadium. Similar renovations need to be done at the Baba Yara Stadium to work on the security zone gate. It’s not a matter of Kotoko and Hearts of Oak being thrown out of their venues; we are working with them to resolve the issue.”
Earlier reports had suggested that the GFA had deemed the facilities unsuitable for Ghana Premier League (GPL) matches following a facility assessment and had directed the clubs to secure alternative venues. However, Addo’s statements indicate that the situation is being addressed collaboratively with all stakeholders involved.
In conclusion, it is evident that the GFA is committed to ensuring the safety and security of players, officials, and fans at football matches held at these venues. By working closely with the clubs and relevant authorities, the issues identified will be resolved, allowing for the seamless continuation of football activities at the Legon Sports Stadium and Baba Yara Stadium.
