Aduana FC General Manager has apologized to André Ayew & Paga people over “goat farming” remarks

In an Official Facebook Post on 10 October 2026, sports journalist Gary Al-Smith reported on a major development in Ghanaian football governance, detailing a formal retraction and apology issued by Aduana FC General Manager Takyi Arhin. The public statement sought to defuse an escalating controversy sparked by disparaging comments aimed at veteran Black Stars captain André Ayew and his ancestral hometown.

Reporting on the matter, Al-Smith highlighted Arhin’s statement: “I write to offer my sincere and unconditional apology to André Ayew for the comment. I do not intend to offer any explanation, but I apologise profusely. It was simply an unfortunate moment… I also wish to apologise to the good people of Paga for the offensive, demeaning and unacceptable comment, and I hope they find it in their hearts to forgive me.” The apology was direct and unreserved, acknowledging the injury caused without seeking to justify or minimize the original remarks.

The post comes against the backdrop of intense public backlash following Arhin’s controversial “goat farming” comment directed at Ayew. The remark drew sharp criticism from sports analysts, fans, and community leaders across the Upper East Region, who condemned the rhetoric as disrespectful to both a celebrated national football figure and the historic town of Paga—the ancestral home of the iconic Ayew football dynasty, including African legend Abedi Pelé.

Observers note that Arhin’s choice to issue an unconditional apology reflects a growing recognition of accountability and professionalism within domestic football management. By explicitly honoring the immense contributions of the Ayew family to national sports heritage and acknowledging Paga’s rich history of producing top athletic talent, the statement sought to repair damaged institutional and community relationships.

At its core, the retraction serves as a reminder of the ethical standards required of sports administrators when engaging in public discourse. Arhin’s acknowledgment that he “erred” underscored the need for constructive leadership and mutual respect, particularly in an environment where personal comments can easily alienate regional communities and sports icons alike.

The post has generated widespread engagement across social media and sports platforms. Many fans commended Arhin for taking full responsibility and delivering a humble, unvarnished apology without shifting blame. Others, however, stressed that public figures must exercise greater restraint before making statements that demean specific towns or national sporting figures. Regardless of stance, the development marks an important step toward resolving a high-profile controversy within Ghanaian football.

Source: Gary Al-Smith, Official Facebook Post, 10 October 2026

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