Haruna Iddrisu, bankroller of Ghana Premier League side Karela United and Member of Parliament for Tamale South, has voiced significant concerns about the financial and logistical challenges associated with their new home ground in Nalerigu, North East Region.
Karela United, previously sharing the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium in Tamale with Real Tamale United, was compelled to relocate mid-season last year due to the poor condition of the pitch. The team has since adopted the Naa Sheriga Sports Stadium in Nalerigu as their home venue for the 2024/25 season.
In their debut match at the new venue, Karela United experienced a narrow 1-0 defeat to Asante Kotoko. Speaking to Onua Sports on September 18, Iddrisu expressed frustration, describing the move to Nalerigu as a form of punishment due to the high costs and travel difficulties.
"Even with Karela United, I cannot use the Tamale stadium because the Aliu Mahama Stadium is in such a deplorable state, and we are now using Nalerigu," Iddrisu stated. "We are being punished because it is more costly for teams to travel to Nalerigu, and many clubs are unhappy about it. We are managing for now."
Iddrisu revealed that the board and management of Karela United are considering relocating back to the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium if possible.
This situation underscores the broader impact of the National Sports Authority's decision to close major sports venues for renovation, leaving many Premier League clubs, including former champions Hearts of Oak, scrambling for alternative home grounds. Hearts of Oak, for instance, have opted for the University of Ghana Sports Stadium during the temporary closure of the Accra Sports Stadium.
