A sea of red and white filled the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Sunday night as hundreds of Asante Kotoko supporters, football fans, and well-wishers gathered for an emotional vigil in memory of Francis Yaw Frimpong, popularly known as Nana Pooley.
The solemn event was held to honour his life following his tragic killing during Kotoko’s Matchday 19 fixture against Nsoatreman FC at Nana Konamansah Park in Nsoatre.
The stadium, usually a place of roaring cheers and celebrations, was instead wrapped in an eerie silence as fans lit candles in remembrance of the devoted Kotoko supporter. Some held placards with messages demanding justice, while others draped banners bearing his name and the words, “Justice for Nana Pooley.”
The vigil began with a series of heartfelt tributes from club officials, players, and supporters’ leaders. Kotoko CEO, Nana Yaw Amponsah, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, calling it a dark moment for the club. “Francis Yaw Frimpong was more than a fan—he was family. His passion for this club was unmatched, and we will not rest until justice is served,” he declared.
The event was not only a tribute but also a rallying call for justice and improved security at football venues across Ghana. The President of the National Supporters Union, Christopher Damenya, urged authorities to swiftly investigate the circumstances surrounding Pooley’s death and ensure that such tragedies never happen again.
“We cannot accept violence in football. We demand justice, not just for Pooley but for every fan who deserves to feel safe while supporting their club,” Damenya stated passionately.
A tearful moment came when Pooley’s family was invited to the center of the gathering. His grieving mother, overwhelmed with emotion, was consoled by club officials and fellow fans. The atmosphere grew even heavier when a close friend of Pooley, who attended matches with him regularly, recounted their last conversation.
As the night wore on, the crowd united in a candle-lighting ceremony, illuminating the stadium in a glow of remembrance. Prayers were offered, and the Kotoko anthem was sung in hushed voices as a final farewell to a fallen brother.
At the end of the vigil, Kotoko’s management reaffirmed their commitment to working with authorities to ensure justice is served and safety measures at stadiums are reinforced. They urged supporters to remain peaceful yet persistent in their calls for change.
As the night concluded, fans left with heavy hearts but a renewed determination to honour Pooley’s memory—not just with candles and chants, but with actions that demand a safer and more just football community.
