Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Hon. Kofi Adams, led a solemn remembrance ceremony today at the forecourt of the Accra Sports Stadium to mark the 24th anniversary of the May 9 Stadium Disaster — the nation’s worst sporting tragedy, which claimed 127 lives in 2001.
The ceremony honoured the memory of football fans who tragically lost their lives during a heated Premier League match between Accra Hearts of Oak and Kumasi Asante Kotoko. “These were football lovers who went to cheer for their teams and never made it back home. We remember them. We stand with their families. And we say, never again,” Hon. Adams said in his address.
The Minister emphasized the need for continued reform in Ghana’s sports sector, calling for passion in the game to be devoid of violence. Referencing the recent death of a football fan known as “Pooley,” Adams noted that it underscores how much more work needs to be done to safeguard spectators.
“I assure the public that under the leadership of H.E. John Dramani Mahama, we will collaborate with the Ghana Police to pursue justice. No one will be shielded — regardless of status,” he stated.
He also acknowledged the achievements of the May 9 Disaster Fund, established to support families of the victims. “Most of the children who lost parents that day have now completed tertiary education — it’s a significant achievement,” the Minister noted. He announced that he has directed Fund Managers to provide a full account of how resources have been utilized and what remains to be done.
Calling on all stakeholders to commit to safer stadiums and better policies, Hon. Kofi Adams reaffirmed the government’s dedication to honouring the legacy of the fallen through meaningful reforms.
“May the souls of the 127 fallen fans rest in peace — and may we honour them not just with remembrance, but with reforms,” he concluded.
The event drew families of victims, sports officials, and members of the public, all united under the banner of “Never Again.”
