GHANAIANS COMMEMORATE THE 22ND ANNIVERSARY OF THE MAY 9TH STADIUM DISASTER

 

In memory of the victims of the May 9th tragedy, a bronze statue  with the names of each victim is erected outside the Accra Sports Stadium.

The Ministry of Youth and Sports (MOYS) collaborated with the National Sports Authority (NSA) and the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to mark the 22nd anniversary of the May 9th disaster. 

The purpose of the celebration was to honor the 127 football fans who lost their lives in a stampede in 2001 at the Accra Sports Stadium during a Ghana Premier League game between Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko.

At the event held on May 9, 2023, at the forecourt of Accra Sports Stadium, the Sports Minister, Mustapha Yussif, paid homage to the departed souls.

"I am honored to be here on the 22nd anniversary of the May 9th stadium disaster. This day reminds us of the tragedy that took place on May 9th, 2001, at the Accra Sports Stadium," he said. 

 Sports Minister Mustapha Yussif (third from the right) at the 22nd memorial service in remembrance of victims;Source:National Sports Authority.

He commended the rescue team for their efforts to save lives on that tragic day, highlighting their efforts during such an occasion.

"Today, we commemorate not only the lives lost but also the bravery of those who rushed to rescue and provide comfort to those affected on that fateful day"

The Sports Minister emphasized that May 9th underscores the significance of security in the stadium for the sporting community.

He added that the government had taken measures to ensure that the stadiums across the country have top-notch ambulance facilities to provide emergency care to spectators. Fans are welcome to support their teams in Stadia, which is free, secure, and safe.

Professor Twumasi the Director General of the National Sports Authority speaking at the 22nd anniversary of the May 9th stadium disaster

However, at the event, Professor Peter Twumasi, the Director General of the National Sports Authority, praised the Accra Sports Stadium Disaster Board of Trustees for their commendable efforts in supporting the bereaved families over the years.

"Ensuring the safety of fans at various stadiums is one of the primary responsibilities of the National Sports Authority". Added Prof. Peter Twumasi.

Prosper Harrison Addo, General Secretary of the Ghana Football Association (right), lays a wreath in memory of the dearly departed on behalf of the GFA

Also, the General Secretary of the Ghana Football Association, Prosper Harrison Addo, pledged their ongoing dedication to ensure that Ghana never experiences such a tragedy again.

 The Ghana Ambulance Services demonstrates first aid to audiences on how to perform a Chest Compression during an emergency during the 22nd anniversary;Source: National Sports Authority

As part of the commemoration, the Ghana National Ambulance Service exhibits life-saving and emergency care methods.

Mustapha Yussif, the Sports Minister, going to lay a wreath on behalf of the State to pay tribute to the 127 stadium disaster victims

To honor the victims, wreaths were placed, beginning with Mr. Mustapha Yussif, the Minister of Youth and Sports, on behalf of the state. Afterwards, Professor Peter Twumasi, the Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), represented the sports community.

The commemoration was attended by Accra Hearts of Oak representatives, Kumasi Asante Kotoko, Ghana League Clubs Association (GHALCA), Accra Sports Stadium Disaster Trustees, the bereaved families, and the supporters union.


A level 300 production by Joyce Yamble

 

Joyce Yamble




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