United in Grief: Hearts Fans Stand with Kotoko to Demand Justice for Nana Pooley at an Emotional Vigil
Football rivals unite at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium to honor the memory of a passionate Kotoko fan and call for justice
- Kotoko and Hearts of Oak fans set rivalry aside to mourn Nana Pooley
- The tragic death of Pooley sparks calls for better security at match venues
- Pooley’s infectious spirit and passion for football remembered through songs and chants
In a heartfelt tribute to the late Nana Pooley, a devoted Asante Kotoko fan, supporters of Kumasi Asante Kotoko and Accra Hearts of Oak came together in a rare show of unity at a solemn night vigil held on Sunday, February 9, at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.
The vigil, organized to celebrate Pooley’s life and demand justice for his tragic death, saw Kotoko’s players, technical team, and management members joining forces with Hearts of Oak fans. The show of solidarity between the two historically rival factions highlighted the shared grief and passion that bind Ghanaian football.
Head coach Prosper Narteh Ogum led the Kotoko delegation, accompanied by management members and players. Notably, former Black Stars coach and Sudan head coach James Kwasi Appiah also attended to pay his respects.
Football Fraternity Demands Justice for Nana Pooley
Nana Pooley tragically lost his life on February 2 after being fatally stabbed near the Nana Koromansah II Park following Kotoko’s match against Nsoatreman FC in the Ghana Premier League.
His death has sparked widespread calls for justice and heightened security measures at football match venues.
Jama Songs and Unity Echo Through Baba Yara
Porcupine Tertiary, Kotoko’s university supporters’ wing, led jama morale songs, with Hearts of Oak fans enthusiastically joining in.
The atmosphere was both sorrowful and unifying, as attendees remembered Pooley’s infectious spirit and unwavering passion for football.
Nana Pooley’s love for Kotoko was unmatched, so much so that even on his wedding day, just seven months before his tragic death, he led a jama session. His wife, Yaa Gifty, and guests fondly recalled this moment, which epitomized his unrelenting joy for the game.
The vigil underscored the profound sense of loss felt across Ghana’s football community.
As fans continue to demand justice, the memory of Nana Pooley’s vibrant presence and his role in uniting supporters will remain a lasting legacy.
