Ghana witnessed a horrifying incident after a football match between rival clubs Accra Hearts of Oak and Kumasi Asante Kotoko at the Accra Sports Stadium, saw the death of 127 football fans perished, when policemen on duty at the stadium, threw tear gas at rioting supporters in the stands, which caused stampede at the exit gates.

The ceremony, which was attended by representatives of both Accra Hearts of Oak and Kumasi Asante Kotoko, at the RLG Hall in the Accra Sports Stadium is described the darkest day in Ghanaian football history.

The Director-General of Sports of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Mr. Robert Safo Mensah, urged supporters to reflect on what happened some 16years ago and always comprehend the possible outcomes in a football game and say no to football hooliganism in all stadia.

According to him, the disaster traumatized many spectators, which called for reforms in security improvement, rapid responds team and first aid at all stadia. The Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr. Isaac Kwame Asiamah, extended his sympathies to the people of Ghana and family members of the victims on behalf of the President and urged Ghanaians to embrace the power of sportsmanship.

“The nation is grateful to all health workers, individuals and groups that helped on 9th may, 2001, as the nation experienced the darkest day in its sports history. “ Let us embrace the tenets of sportsmanship and resolve not to repeat the actions that led to that disaster.” He said.

The wreath laying was led by the Minister of Sports also had a representative from the bereaved families and a joint wreath laying from representatives of both Accra Hearts of Oak and Kumasi Asante Kotoko.