Originally written by Kabah Atawoge
The Paga Youth Movement (PAYOM) is demanding a public apology from Aduana FC manager Tekyi Ahin over remarks it says were derogatory towards Paga and Northern Ghana.
The group’s demand follows comments attributed to Tekyi Ahin during a radio discussion on Space FM in Sunyani, which were subsequently circulated on other social media platforms.
Tekyi Ahin is said to have remarked that “Dede Ayew should invest his money in goat farming in Paga – football is about relationships!”
PAYOM said it finds the reference to Paga “deeply offensive, demeaning and unacceptable,” arguing that the community should not be used as a metaphor for where someone should retreat to when pursuing a national leadership position.
The group said the comment feeds into what it described as an unfortunate stereotype that Northern Ghana is suitable mainly for agriculture and livestock, while positions of influence and national leadership belong elsewhere.
“The five regions of the North are not a dumping ground for ambitions,” PAYOM said, stressing that the region has produced leaders, professionals, academics, entrepreneurs, public servants and business figures who have contributed significantly to Ghana’s development.
The movement also highlighted Paga’s rich tourism and cultural heritage, including the Paga Crocodile Pond, Pikworo Slave Camp, traditional heritage and cross-border commercial activities.
PAYOM stressed that its objection is not to goat farming, describing agriculture and livestock production as dignified and important to Ghana’s economy, but rather to the context in which Paga was referenced.
The group has therefore called on Tekyi Ahin to immediately withdraw the statement and publicly apologise to the people of Paga and Northern Ghana.
PAYOM also clarified that its position is not an attack on Aduana FC, its supporters, the people of Dormaa or the Bono people.
“This is not an attack on Bono people. It is a demand for respect,” the group said.
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