On Thursday, May 9th, 2024, Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Mustapha Ussif, issued a statement marking the occasion of the May 9th Remembrance Day. Joined by stakeholders at the Accra Sports Stadium, they commemorated the tragic event that unfolded during a match between Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko.

The disaster, sparked by a controversial referee decision, resulted in supporters venting their frustration by hurling bottles and objects onto the pitch. Matters worsened when tear gas was deployed by law enforcement, leading to a fatal stampede as stadium gates were closed.

In his statement, Minister Ussif paid tribute to the 126 lives lost in the incident, extending sympathies to their families and loved ones. He acknowledged the May 9th disaster as one of the darkest moments in Ghanaian sports history.

“Today, as we commemorate the 23rd anniversary of the May 9th Stadium disaster, one of the saddest chapters in Ghanaian sports history, we remember the 126 lives lost, and my thoughts are with their families and loved ones,” he posted on Facebook. “As we reflect on this solemn day, let us recommit ourselves to creating a safe and secure sporting environment. The government and I, along with all stakeholders in the sports industry, are deeply devoted to ensuring the safety and well-being of our athletes and fans. May we honor the memory of those we lost by working together to prevent such tragedies in the future.