Entertainment pundit, Ola Michael, has raised questions about how the National Sports Authority (NSA) handled the protection of the pitch ahead of Sarkodie’s 2025 Rapperholic concert held at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.

According to him, the NSA’s directive barring Sarkodie from using the pitch during the concert reflects a lack of seriousness in maintaining the facility.

Speaking on United Showbiz on September 27, 2025, Ola Michael criticised the NSA’s approach to maintenance, arguing that the Authority only takes action when an event is imminent rather than implementing consistent upkeep measures throughout the year.

Rapperholic 2025: Massive crowds defy heavy rains for Kumasi's biggest night in music

“It’s like they are not serious with the covers. They waited until someone was coming with a massive show that we are now talking about protecting the pitch,” he said.

He further questioned why major renovations and maintenance work seem reserved only for times when events draw closer.

According to him, stadium upkeep is a long-overdue responsibility, and pitch covers aren’t just for concerts but also guard against unfavorable weather, which, during an event like Rapperholic, could pose a serious risk to the turf.

“These pitch covers are not only for non-sporting events. They are also necessary in terms of unfavourable weather. Look at Sarkodie’s show, it rained during the event. Imagine if Sarkodie had been allowed to use the pitch in the weather. At the end of the show, the entire greenery would have been gone.

“This has to change. We shouldn’t wait until someone comes with a show that we are now thinking of protecting the pitch,” he urged.

In the lead-up to the concert, the NSA had publicly cautioned that while Sarkodie was authorised to use the Baba Yara Sports Stadium as a venue, he was not permitted to extend production onto the grass pitch itself.

Reports note that any damage to the turf would be sanctioned with fines.

Sarkodie, in response, clarified that he and his team intended to avoid stepping onto the pitch.

He emphasized that the rules were known and that they would not break them.

Watch the video below:

Ola Michael urges NDC government to complete amphitheaters to ease event venue challenges#UnitedShowbiz pic.twitter.com/YHRaCTbVZS

— UTV Ghana (@utvghana) September 28, 2025