Ransford Owusu Ansah was only sixteen years old.

He came from Asamanye in the Ashanti Region and dreamed of becoming a professional footballer.

His family enrolled him at Saino Soccer Academy, trusting that his coach would help him build a future through discipline and sport.

Instead, the coach Ibrahim Anyass abused the authority he was given.

Over several years, Ransford suffered repeated exploitation and sexual abuse that destroyed his health and spirit.

In early 2025 he was admitted to Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, where he died after a long struggle.

Ransford’s mother has spoken publicly about her son’s suffering and has begged for justice.

Despite these pleas and widespread media coverage, the man accused of the abuse remains free and continues to handle young footballers.

The absence of action from those responsible for regulating sports in Ghana is unacceptable.

This case exposes serious weaknesses in how children are protected.

When adults in positions of trust face no consequence, it tells victims that their pain does not matter and teaches predators that they can continue unchecked.

 

 

We therefore call on the following authorities to act immediately:

The Attorney General and Minister for Justice – open a full prosecution against Coach Ibrahim Anyass and anyone who enabled or concealed his actions.

The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection – Champion this cause and ensure psychosocial and legal support for Ransford’s family and other victims of abuse in sports.

 

The Inspector General of Police (IGP) – ensure his arrest and a transparent criminal investigation.

The Minister for Youth and Sports – suspend all licences and operations of Saino Soccer Academy until the investigation is complete.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) – impose a lifetime coaching ban on Ibrahim Anyass and institute strict child-protection protocols for 

Ransford was not just a victim,he was a son, a friend, and a dreamer who believed in football.

We owe it to him and to every child who still dreams to make sure this never happens again.

 

Sign this petition to demand that Ghana’s leaders deliver justice for Ransford Owusu Ansah .

 

 

 

Organizers and Next Steps

Organized by:

                                                                             
Gifty Saah Osei
Justina Naa Adoley Brown

 Kelvin Boafo
Amankwaah Rhena
Abigail Afful

 

What We Plan to Do with the Signatures

All signatures collected through this petition will be:

Submitted directly to:

The Attorney General and Minister for Justice of Ghana
The Inspector General of Police (IGP)
The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection
The Minister for Youth and Sports
The Ghana Football Association (GFA)

Presented publicly to raise awareness through media and social campaigns under the hashtag #JusticeForRansford, calling for accountability and reform in child protection.