ATIKU MOURNS, SAYS DEATH OF 21 KANO ATHLETES HEARTBREAKING
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By oduola F.A.
Ex- Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of 21 Kano State athletes who lost their lives in a fatal road crash while returning from the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Atiku described the incident as heartbreaking and a national tragedy that robbed the country of some of its most promising young talents.
“I am heartbroken by news of the tragic accident that claimed the lives of 21 Kano State athletes returning from the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta.
“These young men and women who have been cut in their prime represent the very best of our nation, dedicated, talented, and full of promise.
“Their untimely passing is a profound loss not only to their families and the people of Kano but to the entire country,” he said.
The former Vice President also stressed the need for improved safety standards, particularly during long-distance travel involving athletes and national contingents.
“It is imperative that we put in place and enforce safety measures to stem accidents and prevent loss of lives,” he said, calling for urgent reforms in transport safety.
Atiku extended his condolences to the bereaved families, the Kano State Government, and Nigeria’s sporting community.
“May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may the injured recover swiftly,” he added.
The accident, which occurred at Dakatsalle Bridge, Kura Area of Kano, involved a bus conveying the athletes back to their home state after participating in the national sports competition in Abeokuta.
Kano State authorities have since confirmed the incident, with officials describing it as one of the darkest moments in the state’s recent sporting history.
The state’s Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Umar Fagge, said efforts are underway to provide support to the victims’ families and ensure proper medical care for the injured.
“The entire state is in mourning. These athletes were ambassadors of Kano and were full of life and hope. Their loss is deeply painful,” the commissioner said.
Tributes have continued to pour in from across the country, with many Nigerians taking to social media to mourn the athletes and call for accountability and better protection for those who represent the country in sporting events.
The National Sports Festival, which concluded recently in Abeokuta, brought together athletes from all 36 states and the FCT. What should have been a moment of celebration has now been overshadowed by grief and national reflection.
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