The Accra Turf Club has formally petitioned the Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Iddie Adams, regarding a recent disturbing incident at the Borteyman Race Course. The club’s chairman, Mr. Frederick Nuer, briefed the Minister about a forceful entry, demolition, and takeover of the racecourse that occurred on Saturday, August 22, 2026.
According to Mr. Nuer, approximately 200 armed men, led by individuals identifying themselves as Clement Dzato and another known as Azuma, forcefully entered the premises of the Accra Race Course located near Borteyman Stadium. The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety and security of the historic racing facility.
The chairman provided background on the significance of horse racing in Accra, which dates back to 1876, with the Accra Turf Club officially established in 1923. He emphasized that the current racecourse at Borteyman was developed following a relocation from its original site, which now hosts prominent landmarks such as the National Security Secretariat and Kempinski Hotel. This move was facilitated by a 2006 agreement with the government, supported by a court order in 2005 that recognized the club’s right to occupy 46.64 hectares of land in the Borteyman enclave.
Hon. Adams expressed gratitude to the club for its efforts in maintaining the green sport and Ghana’s sporting cultural heritage over the past years.
He described the demolition incident as unfortunate. He assured the club of his commitment to collaborate with relevant state institutions to resolve the matter promptly and to ensure the sustainability of livelihoods associated with the club.
The Minister also highlighted the importance of preserving natural environments and sports facilities as part of Ghana’s response to climate change. He revealed that the government has acquired substantial land within the Borteyman area and is planning to develop it into a sports village, further emphasizing the government’s support for sports development and recreational spaces.
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