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Football fan stabbed to death at Ghana league match

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A football fan has died at a Ghana Premier League venue in Nsoatre, a suburb of the Bono Ahafo region.

The deceased, identified as Francis Frimpong, popularly known as Pooley, was believed to be a passionate supporter of Kumasi Asante Kotoko.

Though JoySports cannot independently verify the details, multiple reports suggest he was stabbed to death during a Matchday 19 Premier League fixture between Nsoatreman FC and Asante Kotoko.

Some fans try to help Francis Frimpong following stabbing at the stadium
Francis Frimpong in a pool of blood inside the stadium

An eyewitness, who was at the VIP section of the stadium, claimed he was seated close to former Minister of Employment and Labour Relations, Ignatius Baffour Awuah, when the brawl began.

“I was seated right below Hon. Baffour Awuah, who is the owner of the club, when the fight started on the pitch,” he said in Twi.

“Kwasi Appiah [Head of Asante Kotoko’s Technical Directorate] was seated to his right. So when the fight broke out, he went downstairs to try and calm the situation.

“When he got there, he signalled for Kwasi Appiah to join him, but some of the Kotoko leadership advised Appiah not to, warning that the situation was too volatile and he could be attacked, so Appiah stayed back,” he narrated.

According to the eyewitness, this angered Baffour Awuah.

“He got upset that Appiah ignored him and, out of frustration, signalled the supporters to continue what they were doing. He incited the fans. On his way back to his seat, Pooley approached him.”

Describing Pooley, the eyewitness said: “He was fair in complexion, wearing a white shirt and brown shoes, with a Kotoko flag around his neck. I could hear them clearly because I was right there.

“Pooley told him, ‘Oh Honourable, what the fans are doing is not good; tell them to stop.’ But because Honourable was frustrated that Appiah ignored him, he pushed Pooley.

“The fans then rushed at Pooley. In his attempt to defend himself, he punched one of the supporters and tried to move towards Kwasi Appiah. However, a fight broke out, and Kotoko’s leadership intervened to restore calm.”

Sources claim Appiah was pelted with water, and he eventually left the stadium.

But just when they thought peace had been restored, things took a tragic turn.

“So while we all thought calm had been restored, I told my boss we should leave. As we got downstairs, we saw that Pooley had been stabbed with a knife and was being rushed out in a Pragya [tricycle].”

According to him, the ambulance was parked near the players’ dressing rooms, while the stabbing occurred at the VIP section.

“I was with Pooley when he gave his last words. He said, ‘Even if there’s an ambulance, they won’t take me to the hospital.’ Those were his last words.”

The eyewitness, who claims to be a hospital worker, stated that Pooley was stabbed in the upper left side of his chest, near the heart.

“The person who stabbed him was an expert. After stabbing him, he told them to take him to the ambulance. I was at the stadium with my medical team, so I followed the ambulance to the Nsoatre Ghana Health Service, the nearest hospital.

“I was with him when his eyes were fading. The black in his eyes disappeared, so I believe he died at the park.

“When he was taken inside the hospital, they did nothing to him. So from what I saw, he died at the park and not at the hospital, as some claim.”

Coach Ibrahim Tanko joins Medeama after departure from Accra Lions

Ibrahim Tanko has been appointed as the new head coach of defending Ghana Premier League champions Medeama SC following his departure from Accra Lions.

The experienced tactician, who previously led Ghana’s U-23 team (Black Meteors) and served as assistant coach of the Black Stars, joins the Tarkwa-based club as they look to strengthen their technical bench for both domestic and continental competitions

His appointment comes as the Yellow and Mauve seek to improve their position in both the Ghana Premier League and FA Cup competitions for the 2024/25 season. The team has been without a substantive head coach since Evans Adotey stepped aside from his role earlier in the season.

The Tarkwa-based side announced the hiring of the former Ghana international on a two-and-half-year deal on Wednesday, January 29.

“Medeama Sporting Club is pleased to confirm the appointment of Coach Ibrahim Tanko on a two-and-half year contract,” the club said in an official statement.

Tanko, the son of the Bissa Chief of Kumasi, brings considerable experience to Medeama, having also worked as an assistant coach with the Cameroon national team and German club SC Freiburg. His immediate task will be to improve the team’s current form in domestic competitions.

The former Borussia Dortmund striker left his role at Accra Lions where he had been serving as head coach since the start of the 2023/24 season. During his tenure, he helped stabilize the team’s performance in the Ghana Premier League.

Medeama will be hoping Tanko’s wealth of experience and tactical acumen will help them challenge for honors in both the league and FA Cup this season.

Yussif Mustapha: Bissas Customs officer wins World Customs Organisation’s Award

A Bissa Customs Officer Yussif Mustapha has won the World Customs Organization’s Prestigious Regional Award on the occasion of International Customs Day 2025.

It comes after years of dedicated service, innovative leadership, and transformative approaches to customs procedures.

He was honoured with the World Customs Organization (WCO) award for overall best officer in the Bono Region.

He received a citation and a certificate of merit, marking his exceptional service and dedication to the country.

Mustapha’s remarkable journey in the Ghana Revenue Authority’s Customs Division spans over 15 years, during which he has consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism and commitment to modernising customs operations.

“Since your enrollment in September 2008, you have been a dedicated and exemplary officer. Over the years, you have served with distinction across several collections and stations,”the citation noted, highlighting his distinguished service.

“Your character is marked by diligence, teamwork, punctuality, and an admirable spirit of submission. You have excellent customer relations, problem-solving skills, and commitment to duty, which have earned you the respect of both colleagues and stakeholders.”

His strategic initiatives have not only improved revenue collection but also enhanced trade facilitation across the Bono Region.

The International Customs Day 2025, themed “Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity,” highlights the critical role of customs organisations in global trade.

The ceremony, which took place at the Accra International Conference Centre, celebrated outstanding customs officers across the country.

This year’s theme underscores the importance of customs services in balancing economic growth with national security, a mission that Mustapha has exemplified throughout his career.

Beyond his current recognition, Mustapha’s career trajectory reflects a pattern of continuous improvement and leadership.

“Among your notable accomplishments include playing a pivotal role in trade facilities in the Collection and fostering harmonious collaboration between the Customs Division and other sister security agencies,”the citation highlighted.

From his early days joining customs in September 2008 to his pivotal role at the Sunyani Collection since March 2022, he has been instrumental in developing more efficient and transparent customs processes.

The award goes beyond mere recognition; it positions Mustapha as a regional ambassador for customs excellence.

“Your staunch security consciousness and dedication to the prosperity of the collection have set you apart as a model officer,” the citation added.

His peers and leadership view him as a mentor who has significantly contributed to training and developing the next generation of customs professionals.

As part of his new responsibilities, Mustapha is expected to continue driving innovation in customs operations, sharing best practices, and mentoring young officers in the Bono Region and potentially beyond.

Obuasi Bissa youth leader, one other killed in Military brutality

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The Leader of Obuasi Bissa Youth, Zakari Adams Zampuu, and another Bissa member, Abdul Karim, were among eleven individuals killed during a military crackdown on small-scale miners at the AngloGold Ashanti (AGA) mine.

The fatal incident occurred during an overnight raid at the mining facility, where military personnel stationed to provide security fired at a group of small-scale miners who had visited the abandoned site to appeal for permission to mine.

Zampuu and Karim were confirmed among the casualties in what has become one of the deadliest mining-related incidents in recent times.

According to eyewitnesses, the confrontation began around midnight when a group of small-scale miners approached the mining site to appeal for permission to mine, citing that AngloGold had abandoned the area. The situation rapidly escalated into gunfire after miners had gathered in protest while their leaders knelt, begging the military personnel guarding the facility for access.

The deaths of the two Bissa community members have sent shockwaves through the local population, particularly affecting the tight-knit Bissa community in Obuasi. Their deaths were part of a larger toll that saw eleven people losing their lives in the confrontation.

In the aftermath of the shootout, several others sustained injuries and were rushed to both the Obuasi Government Hospital and the AGA Hospital for urgent medical attention. The incident has sparked unrest in the area, with community members taking to the streets in protest. Four vehicles, including buses, were set ablaze during the ensuing chaos, and demonstrators burned tires on several streets.

The situation remains tense in Obuasi as authorities work to restore calm while investigating the circumstances that led to this deadly confrontation. The loss of Zampuu, a respected youth leader, and Karim has particularly highlighted the human cost of ongoing tensions between small-scale miners and mine security forces in the region.

Local authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, including the events that triggered the fatal confrontation and the subsequent deaths of the eleven individuals, including the two prominent Bissa community members.

Man narrowly escapes lynching in Kasapii over mistaken LBTQ+ dentity 

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A man narrowly escaped death on Saturday December 14
2024 after being falsely accused of being a member of the LGBTQ+ community in the town
of Kasapii in the Ahafo Region.

The incident, fueled by tensions surrounding recent anti-
LGBTQ+ legislation and a prior tragedy involving two men accused of same-sex relations,
has reignited debate over Ghana’s treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals.

The victim, Kwaku Owusu, a 32-year-old carpenter, was attacked in the Kasapii
marketplace after a vendor accused him of being part of the LGBTQ+ community. The
accusation quickly escalated into mob violence, with onlookers joining the attack. Owusu
was severely beaten until a group of bystanders, including a local pastor and community
elders, intervened and called the police. He was later taken to a nearby hospital, where he
is receiving treatment for multiple injuries.

Background: The Case of Julius and Kwabena
This latest incident comes in the wake of the tragic case of Julius Nana Osei Nyamekye
popularly known as Julius and Kwabena Addai popularly known as Kwabena, two young
men originally from Bremang, Kumasi, in the Ashanti Region. In April, 2023, they were
accused of engaging in same-sex relations in Kasapii. A mob attacked the two men,
severely beating them.

According to Nana Yaa, a resident of Kasapii, Kwabena Addai(Kwabena) was later spotted
near the house he and Julius Nana Osei Nyamekye (Julius} once shared on October 16,

  1. Residents alerted others, and a group attacked him, beating him severely. “They said
    he had the audacity to come back after what had happened,” Nana Yaa recounted.
    Kwabena Addai(Kwabena) was admitted to the Kasapii SDA Hospital with life-threatening
    injuries. His family in Kumasi requested his transfer to the Manhyia Government Hospital in
    the Ashanti Region for specialized care. Despite medical efforts, Kwabena
    Addai(Kwabena) succumbed to his injuries on Octoberr 21, 2024.

Kwabena was buried at the Tafo Cemetery in Kumasi on November 16, 2024. During the
funeral, members of an anti-LGBTQ+ group were heard chanting threats and vowing to
locate Julius, who remains in hiding. “We will find him and punish him for disgracing our
community,” mourners declared.

Mistaken Identity and Mob Violence
Saturday’s attack on Kwaku Owusu is believed to have been a case of mistaken identity.
Witnesses say that Owusu, who bears a striking resemblance to Mensah, was wrongly
identified as the fugitive by individuals familiar with the earlier incident.

“I heard people shouting, ‘That’s him! That’s the man who escaped!’ and before I knew it,
they were attacking him,” said an eyewitness. Owusu was beaten and stripped before being
rescued by bystanders. He has denied any connection to Julius Nana Osei
Nyamekye(Julius) or Kwabena Addai(Kwabena). “I don’t know these people or what
happened. I was just in the market to buy supplies,” Owusu said from his hospital bed.

The Context: Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation in Ghana
The incident comes amidst heightened tensions over Ghana’s recent anti-LGBTQ+ bill,
officially titled the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values
Bill. Currently under consideration in Parliament, the bill seeks to criminalize LGBTQ+
activities, advocacy, and support, with penalties ranging from fines to lengthy prison
sentences.

Proponents argue that the legislation is necessary to protect Ghana’s cultural and moral
values, which they say are at odds with LGBTQ+ practices. Opponents, however, contend
that the bill violates fundamental human rights and fosters an environment of intolerance
and violence.

“The government’s rhetoric and actions have emboldened individuals and groups to take
the law into their own hands,” said Lydia Mensah, a human rights advocate in Kumasi.
“When you demonize people, you create a culture of fear and hatred that leads to tragedies
like these.”

Government Response
In response to the attack on Owusu, Information Minister Kojo Oppong Nkrumah
condemned the mob violence but reiterated the government’s stance on preserving
Ghana’s cultural values. “The government does not condone mob justice under any
circumstances,” he said. “While we remain committed to upholding Ghana’s moral
principles, all allegations must be handled through lawful processes.”

However, critics argue that the government’s anti-LGBTQ+ policies indirectly encourage
such acts. Amnesty International Ghana issued a statement urging authorities to protect all
citizens, regardless of their actual or perceived sexual orientation, and to address the root
causes of mob violence.

Call for Peace and Justice
The attack on Owusu has sparked widespread calls for dialogue, education, and tolerance.
Community leaders in Kasapii and Kumasi have urged calm, while human rights
organizations demand stronger protections for marginalized groups.

Owusu, still recovering from his injuries, expressed frustration and fear over the ordeal. “I
almost lost my life for something I had no part in. This hatred must stop,” he said.

As the anti-LGBTQ+ bill continues to stir controversy, incidents like these underscores the
urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address violence, foster understanding, and
uphold the rule of law in Ghana.

Meet the 3 Bissa Parliamentarians sworn into the 9th Parliament

The 9th Parliament of Ghana’s 4th Republic has welcomed three Bissa parliamentarians among its ranks, marking an increase from the previous parliament’s two Bissa representatives.

All three legislators, representing the National Democratic Congress (NDC), took their oaths of office in the early hours of January 7th, preceding President John Mahama’s inauguration ceremony.

Four Bissas contested and all were for the NDC, with only the  aspirant for the Manhyia North constituency, Hamza Swallah, failing short in his second attempt to secure the seat in NPP stronghold.

The swearing-in ceremony was attended by family members, friends, and dignitaries, and marked the beginning of a new legislative era one months the 2024 general elections.

Below is the list of Bissa MPs.

1) Hon. Muhammed Bawah Braimah –  Ejura-Sekyedumase constituency 

Hon. Muhammed Bawah Braimah, MP for Ejura-Sekyedumase, at the Independence Square during the inaugural ceremony

Leading the Bissa representation is Hon. Muhammed Bawah Braimah of Ejura-Sekyedumase constituency, who secured his third consecutive term in Parliament.

His parliamentary journey began in 2017, continued through 2021, and now extends into 2025. A seasoned parliamentarian, his experience spanning three parliamentary terms makes him the most senior among the Bissa representatives, demonstrating the strong confidence his constituents have in his leadership abilities.

2) Hon. Adams Abdul-Salam – New Edubiase constituency 

Hon. Adams Abdul-Salam of New Edubiase captured at the Independence Square during President Mahama’s inauguration

Hon. Adams Abdul-Salam of New Edubiase constituency returns to Parliament for his second term, having first entered the chamber in 2021. His re-election demonstrates his constituents’ satisfaction with his first-term performance and speaks to his effective representation of their interests.

3)  Hon. Abdul Rauf Tubazu – Ayawaso Central constituency 

A proud moment for Hon. Rauf Tobazo at the Independence Square during the presidential inauguration. The first-time MP for Ayawaso Central made history by unseating the incumbent

Hon. Rauf Tobazo made history by unseating NPP’s Henry Quartey in the Ayawaso Central constituency. His victory is particularly remarkable as it comes after an unsuccessful bid in the 2020 elections. Through persistence and determination, he secured his breakthrough victory in 2024, bringing fresh energy to Parliament.

This increase in Bissa representation from two MPs in the 8th Parliament to three in the current 9th Parliament marks a significant milestone for the Bissa community in Ghana’s legislative body.

Ashanti BDA to mark Sukuma Festival with only health walk

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The Ashanti Region Bissa Development Association (BDA) has announced significant changes to this year’s Sukuma festival, revealing that the annual cultural event will be marked with only a health walk.

In a major departure from previous years’ grand celebrations, the 2024 Sukuma festival will not feature its traditional durbar and the usual display of pomp and pageantry. Instead, the BDA has opted for a simplified format, focusing solely on organizing a health walk for community members.

“This year’s celebration will take a different direction as we focus on bringing our communities together in a more intimate setting,” said regional BDA official Zakari Ayaaba, speaking on behalf of the organization.

“While the traditional durbar has been a highlight in past celebrations, we will only be having a health walk this year.”

The health walk, which will serve as the sole event for this year’s festival, will bring together Bissa community members from across the region. The BDA will announce specific details about the date, time, and route for the walk in the coming weeks.

For more information about the 2024 Sukuma festival health walk, community members are encouraged to contact their local BDA zone representatives on 0249900428/ 0241760666

BDA condemns Kusasi attacks in Pusiga District

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The Bissa Development Association (BDA) has issued a scathing condemnation of recent violent attacks against Bissa residents in the Kupelgu community within the Pusiga District, alleging a systematic campaign of intimidation and ethnic persecution by members of the Kusasi ethnic group.

It comes after the announcement of the NDC as the winner of the recent national elections, with tensions erupting into violent confrontations.

According to the press release, attackers descended on the community around 10 PM, firing guns and burning down multiple houses in what the BDA describes as a dangerous escalation of political tensions. The attacks reportedly followed threatening WhatsApp audio messages and occurred immediately after the declaration of President John Mahama as President-elect.

The association detailed a series of alarming accusations, including claims of targeted violence against Bissa residents who were exercising their constitutional right to political expression.

The Association highlighted that three Bissa members have recently been elected to the 9th Parliament on NDC tickets, challenging narratives of forced political alignment.

“For the records three of our Bissa brothers have won their seats to be part of the 9th Parliament on the NDC tickets,” the statement read. 

“Were these brothers forced by Kusasis to join and campaign for the NDC? Let all those who claim to love Bawku and yet seek to destroy Bawku with their actions continue.

“The Bissa people wish to be spared this open provocation and open invitation to join in the destruction of this beautiful land our forefathers bequeathed to us.”

The BDA has demanded immediate actions from local and national authorities, including:

  • Intervention by security forces to protect Bissa residents
  • A comprehensive investigation into the attacks
  • Prosecution of those responsible
  • Compensation for victims whose properties were destroyed

In a stern warning to the Kusasi community, the association emphasized that political differences should never translate into ethnic violence, calling for peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding.

“Any continuation of such actions will compel the Bissa community to mount a robust defensive response that will inevitably escalate tensions and potentially result in widespread conflict.,” it said.

The statement reveales a critical moment of tension in the region, underscoring the fragile nature of ethnic relations and the importance of protecting democratic principles.

Read full statement below:

Attack on Bissas – URGENT PRESSER

Bansi Eliasu: Bissa Student emerges as KNUST Valedictorian

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Bansi Eliasu Yahaya has emerged as the top-performing student at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), achieving the valedictorian title for the College of Arts and Built Environment.

He secured the valedictorian title with an exceptional Cumulative Weighted Average (CWA) of 81.04 in BSc Real Estate, surpassing the 2023 valedictorian, Desmond Bantee, by a margin of 0.71 points.

The graduation ceremony, held on Thursday 21 November, celebrated Mr Bansi’s outstanding academic accomplishment, marking him as the current best valedictorian in his college.

His academic journey began at Bawku Senior High School before his remarkable achievement at KNUST.

His achievement continues a notable trend of academic excellence among Bissa students, building on recent successes such as Hadi Abubakar’s valedictorian status at the Islamic University College Ghana last year.

These accomplishments are significant for the Bissa community, challenging historical educational barriers and demonstrating the intellectual prowess of young Bissa scholars.

Social media users have since congratulated Mr Yahaya, expressing their admiration and wishing him success in his future endeavours.

Also read:Zerba man picks overall best as 11 Bissas graduate from Islamic University

Insiya Mohammed Gombani: Bissa Lady Crowned Miss Muslimah Ghana 2024

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A young Bissa lady, Insiya Mohammed, has been crowned Miss Muslimah Ghana 2024, beating seven other contestants in a celebration of Muslim beauty and cultural heritage.

It comes after a remarkable performance where she showcased her deep understanding of Islamic principles and demonstrated exceptional talent in cultural presentations that captivated both judges and audience alike.

The Grand Finale held at the National Theater on Saturday November 9 saw the Bissa lady exhibiting one of her best for the night to the admiration of many.

She was articulate, bold and confident throughout the competition after spending days to practise under the guidance of cultural mentors and pageant coaches, mastering every aspect of the competition requirements.

Insiya received a cash prize of 5,000 Ghanaian cedis (approximately £320), along with a commemorative plaque and additional prizes at the event, which returned after a year-long hiatus.

She shed tears of joy as the crown was placed on her head, marking a momentous achievement for both herself and her community.

Kir Mustapha Lengani was instrumental for Insiya’s victory

The Bissa Chief of Gomoa Fetteh, Kir Mustapha Dawuda Lengani, played a pivotal role in Mohammed’s success, providing cultural training and support throughout her preparation. Her performance included a showcase of traditional Bissa customs, which formed a crucial part of the competition.

The pageant, now in its third season, aims to challenge stereotypes surrounding Muslim women in the beauty industry whilst maintaining religious and cultural values.

“Miss Muslimah Ghana has established itself as a platform that empowers young Muslim women to excel in a non-Muslim-dominated industry,” the organisers said.

The competition distinguishes itself from conventional beauty pageants by emphasising modesty and intelligence alongside physical appearance, creating opportunities for Muslim women to participate in mainstream cultural events whilst adhering to their religious principles.

She joins a list of Bissas who are selling the Bissa brand through pageantry, following in the footsteps of notable predecessors who have used such platforms to showcase their rich cultural heritage and promote diversity within Ghana’s beauty industry.