Pooley’s Death: “If hooliganism doesn’t end It will be difficult for investors to invest in Ghana Football” – Dr Kwame Kyei
Dr. Kwame Kyei, the former chairman of Asante Kotoko’s Board of Directors, has issued a stern warning regarding the rising tide of hooliganism in Ghanaian football. Dr. Kyei expressed deep concern over the growing incidents of violence in the sport, emphasizing that if such behavior continues unchecked, it will become increasingly difficult to attract investors to Ghana’s football industry.
Pooley, a passionate fan of Asante Kotoko, tragically passed away under circumstances that have raised significant concerns about safety in Ghanaian football. His death, allegedly linked to hooliganism and violence surrounding the match, has struck a devastating blow to the football community. As the investigation into the circumstances of his passing continues, Pooley’s death has become a focal point for discussions on the safety of players, officials, and fans within the sport.
In response to the increasing instances of violence, Dr. Kwame Kyei has urged that immediate steps be taken to address the issue. He has stressed that if the situation persists, it could have dire consequences for the future of football in Ghana, particularly in terms of investment and growth.
Hooliganism has been an ongoing problem in many parts of the world, but in recent years, it has become an alarming issue in Ghanaian football. Instances of crowd violence, player abuse, and even attacks on referees have been reported with increasing frequency. Dr. Kyei highlighted that such behavior undermines the integrity of the sport and discourages the development of football in the country.
Investment is crucial for the growth and sustainability of any sport. For Ghanaian football to reach its potential and compete on the international stage, substantial investment in infrastructure, player development, and team management is essential. However, investors are increasingly hesitant to commit to Ghana’s football scene due to the ongoing challenges related to safety and violence.
Dr. Kyei speaking in an interview on Kessben TV at Pooley’s one-week funeral observation at the Hereos Park emphasized that for Ghanaian football to progress and attract meaningful investment, the authorities must address the issue of hooliganism head-on. “No serious investor will consider putting their money into a sport where there is a constant threat to the safety of players and officials,” he said. “We need to create a secure and professional environment where sponsors and investors feel comfortable supporting the game.”
Furthermore, Dr. Kyei pointed out that without substantial investment, the growth of football in Ghana would stagnate, preventing the sport from reaching its full potential. “If we want to see the kind of football we all dream of—one where players are respected, teams are competitive, and the league is world-class—then we need to ensure that the environment is free of violence.”
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