Kotoko mark first anniversary of Nana Pooley's death
Asante Kotoko Sporting Club has commemorated the first anniversary of the tragic death of devoted supporter Francis Yaw Frimpong, popularly known as Nana Pooley, who lost his life at Nsoatreman, where he had gone to watch a Premier League match between his club and now-defunct Nsoatreman FC.
In a statement to mark the tragic incident, the club described the incident as a senseless act of hooliganism that cut short the life of a passionate fan whose only crime was his love for the beautiful game.
Kotoko stressed that Pooley was more than just a supporter — he was a symbol of the joy, energy and unity that football is meant to inspire.
“One year on, the pain of his absence is still felt every day,” the statement read, adding that while his life was taken too soon, the memories, joy and love he brought to the stands can never be erased.
Never again
The club reiterated that football should be a place of passion, community and happiness, making Pooley’s death a tragedy that should never be repeated.
Kotoko used the occasion to once again call for justice, insisting that delays only deepen the wounds of those left behind.
They also recommitted themselves to advocating for safer football environments, where match centres are free from violence and supporters can gather in unity without fear.
Asante Kotoko concluded by honouring Nana Pooley’s enduring legacy, stating that his spirit lives on in every chant and every goal, even as the game feels less bright without him.
The club said it was sad that a year on, the victim was yet to get justice as nothing much had been heard of the case, stressing that: "Justice delayed is justice denied."
Incident
Nana Polley was stabbed to death on February 2, 2025, at Nsoatre during a Ghana Premier League clash between Kotoko and Nsoatreman.
He was found lying on the ground with blood oozing from his stomach.
No one has been prosecuted as the case continues to linger in court.
The incident marred last season’s Premier League, with the competition halted for over a month to allow stakeholder discussions and the introduction of enhanced safety and security protocols.
Following the acts of hooliganism, Nsoatreman FC withdrew from the competition.
