The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has issued a stern warning to football clubs following a series of disturbing incidents that marred Premier League matchday 6 over the weekend.
Reports of violence and misconduct at various match venues have prompted the GFA to take decisive action.
During these matches, irate Kotoko fans resorted to damaging seats at the Dr Kwame Kyei Stadium following their team’s 2-2 draw against local rivals Nations FC in Abrankese. Additionally, Adana FC supporters were reported to have pelted Great Olympics players with stones in Dormaa during the Fire Club’s 3-1 win.
The misconduct extended to Dawu, where disturbances occurred during Dreams FC’s 2-1 victory over Medeama. In Tamale, the situation escalated to the point where Bofoakwa Tano players had to be escorted out of the stadium in a police bus to avoid an attack by Karela United supporters following their goalless draw.
In response to these incidents, the GFA issued a statement, saying, “Following the Match Reports from all match venues, the GFA wishes to assure the sporting public that there will be a strong action from the appropriate organs of the GFA against culprits in accordance with the GFA Disciplinary Code and relevant Competition Regulations.”
The statement continued, “The sporting judicial proceedings and its sanctions regime will be strictly enforced.”
The GFA also reminded clubs, team officials, and supporters of their responsibilities, emphasising the need to exhibit behaviours of respect, fair play, and tolerance before, during, and after football matches.
The GFA urged clubs to take an active role in educating all stakeholders, including their supporters, on the provisions of the Disciplinary Code and the potential sanctions for misconduct that could affect the clubs.
Supporters were further reminded of official processes for addressing grievances and were encouraged to allow club management to pursue these avenues.
The GFA expressed its commendation for the professionalism, protection, and patience demonstrated by the security services during these incidents, assuring them of cooperation in arresting individuals who violate national laws at football events and guiding them through the criminal justice system.