President Nana Akufo-Addo has commended the May 9th Foundation for ensuring the tragic incident known as the May 9 disaster which occurred in Ghana football 20 years ago does not repeat itself with its annual commemorative event.
Ghana football was hit with its biggest tragedy on 9 May 2001 when 126 football fans died in a Ghana Premier League game between Accra Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko at the Accra Sports Stadium.
The Police fired a tear gas into the crowd which caused a stampede resulting in the worst stadium disaster to have occurred in Africa. May 9 was earmarked to honor those who lost their lives which also lead to the formation of the May 9 Foundation.
The May 9 Foundation paid a courtesy call on government as part of its activities on their 20th anniversary.
President Nana Akufo-Addo congratulated the group for championing the campaign to ensure the memories of those who died are celebrated.
“Tragedy of this sort can only be commemorative and remembered because people decided that they will not allow people to forget it. So those of you who have taken the trouble to perpetuate the memory of those affected and have now grouped yourself to May 9 Foundation deserve applause from the entire nation”.
“We hope the purpose of the May 9th Foundation will go beyond football and extend to other sectors. We must all ensure to prevent this from happening again”
Leader for the May 9 Foundation, Herbert Mensah thanked President Nana Akufo-Addo for giving them audience for the first time since its inception.
“After 20 years, this is the first time a president has recognized this event and we appreciate your time. We are happy we have found a President who cares”.
Former captains of Hearts and Kotoko, Amankwah Mireku and Godwin Ablordey advised football fans to take a cue from what happened on May 9 and avoid hooliganism and violence when they visit match venues
