In response to the devastating loss of Francis “Pooley” Yaw Frimpong and the persistent challenge of violence in Ghanaian football, Happy 98.9 FM announces the launch of “United Against Hooliganism,” a comprehensive initiative aimed at combating violence in sports.
On Sunday, during a Ghana Premier League match between Asante Kotoko and Nsoatreman at the Nana Koramansah Park, passionate football fan Francis “Pooley” Yaw Frimpong was tragically stabbed to death following a heated argument. The incident occurred amidst wider chaos that saw pitch invasions and attacks on players, including Asante Kotoko’s goalkeeper Mohammed Camara.
“The death of Pooley represents a dark moment in Ghanaian football,” says Ohene Bampoe-Brenya, Head of Sports at Happy FM. “This senseless violence has robbed our football community of a devoted fan who regularly shared his passion for the game on radio. His death must serve as a wake-up call for all stakeholders in Ghana football.”
The recent tragedy echoes the haunting memories of the 2001 stadium disaster in Accra that claimed 126 lives, highlighting the ongoing challenge of violence in Ghanaian football.
“Each act of violence drives away families, sponsors, and true fans while tarnishing Ghana’s rich football heritage,” Ohene-Bampoe Brenya adds. “We at Happy FM refuse to stand idle while violence destroys what generations have built. This initiative represents our commitment to meaningful change.”
Happy FM has consistently been at the forefront of positive change in Ghanaian sports. Through initiatives such as “Respect the Referee” and “Nkonta buo” – which successfully demanded accountability from sports leaders – the Happy Sports team has demonstrated its commitment to improving Ghana sports on all levels of the game.
“Our track record shows that when we unite for a cause, we achieve results,” Ohene-Bampoe Brenya emphasizes. “United Against Hooliganism builds on our previous successes, taking our advocacy to a new level in response to this crisis.”
The initiative launches with three key components:
– A minute of silence this Sunday at 4:30 PM, marking one week since Pooley’s passing
– A roundtable discussion bringing together clubs, coaches, and victims of football violence
– Collection of petitions at Happy FM’s offices to be presented to the Minister of Sports, Ghana Football Association, Parliament, and the National Sports Authority
“Football should unite us, not divide us,” concludes Ohene-Bampoe Brenya. “Through ‘United Against Hooliganism,’ we’re committed to being part of the solution. We call upon all stakeholders – from fans to officials, from players to administrators – to join us in this vital mission to restore safety and dignity to our beloved sport.”
