Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of 20 Kano athletes who lost their lives in a road crash while returning home from the 22nd National Sports Festival (NSF), held recently in Ogun State.
The athletes were on their way back to Kano when their bus was involved in a fatal accident. The crash reportedly took place near Dakatsalle Bridge in Kura Local Government Area, around 50 kilometres away from Kano. The vehicle had already passed through Kaduna State when the accident happened. Out of the approximately 30 people on the bus, 20 lives were lost.
Governor Abiodun, in a statement issued from Abeokuta on Saturday, said the tragic news had deeply shaken him. He described the athletes as promising young Nigerians who had proudly represented Kano State at the Gateway Games 2024 and were eagerly heading home to reunite with their families and supporters.
“It is indeed saddening and distressing that 20 gallant athletes, who had represented Kano State at the just concluded Gateway 2024 games, have lost their lives in the most traumatising and painful circumstances,” the Governor’s statement read.
He added that these young men and women had shown strong commitment and passion, and were on the path to achieving great things through their sports talents. Abiodun noted the emotional toll the loss would have on the families, especially those who were waiting to celebrate their return.
“This is so painful. These were young people, budding stars who had a lot to give the country with their talents, skills, and creativity,” he said.
The Governor also extended his prayers to the victims’ families and friends. He said the athletes would always be remembered for their service and pride to Kano State and Nigeria. Abiodun noted that their dedication to unity and sportsmanship stood out at the national festival.
“They were heading home with joy, only for their lives to be cut short just before setting foot on Kano soil,” he noted.
He went on to send his condolences to Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, the Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission Umar Bala Fagge, and the entire people of Kano.
“We are deeply saddened by this incident, and we pray that Almighty Allah grants them eternal rest,” he said.
Governor Abiodun ended his message with a hope that such a heartbreaking event would never happen again in the country’s sports history.
