Hearts console rivals Kotoko over PV Obeng's death

Hearts of Oak have sent a message of condolence to Asante Kotoko over the death of their former Board Chairman P.V Obeng.

A letter dated 19th May, 2014, and signed by the Board Chairman Togbe Afede XIV stated:

“It was with a heavy heart that we learnt of the sudden demise last Saturday of Mr. Paul Victor Obeng, former Board Chairman of Kumasi Asante Kotoko FC . We convey our deepest condolences to the family of P.V Obeng and the Kumasi Asante Kotoko family on this sad occurrence.

“We at Hearts of Oak will forever keep fond memories of the mature, conciliatory and sober perspective that the former Kotoko Chairman brought to bear on issues. In 2005, P.V Obeng displayed this pacifist spirit by approaching his Hearts of Oak counterpart, Mr. Ato Ahwoi to amicably resolve the otherwise bitter conflict over onward transfer fee claims by Hearts after Kotoko had transferred Charles Taylor to Tunisia's Etoile du Sahel. We pray that the late former Kotoko Chairman's gentle disposition and exemplary sportsmanship would inspire all stakeholders in our beautiful game to adhere to the principles of fair play and respect for opponents.

“Kumasi Asante Kotoko has indeed lost a gem of a football administrator; Ghana football has lost a towering figure, one of its prized senior citizens.

“It is our prayer that God gives the bereaved relatives, the Kumasi Asante Kotoko family and, indeed Ghana's sporting fraternity the fortitude to bear such a heavy loss.

“We share in the grief and pray for the peaceful rest of comrade P.V Obeng.”