The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has expressed grief over the tragic death of 22 athletes and officials from Kano State in a fatal road accident on their way back from the 22nd National Sports Festival held in Ogun State.
The Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, described the incident as a heartbreaking loss not just to Kano State, but to the entire Nigerian sports community.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the athletes, the government of Kano State, and indeed the wider Nigerian sports community.
“This is a deeply sorrowful moment,” he stated in a message released on Saturday.
The NGF chairman called for prayers and support for the grieving families, urging Nigerians to join in seeking divine comfort for them.
“We ask Allaah to repose the souls of the athletes and give succour to their families at this difficult moment,” he added.
The athletes were said to be among the state’s contingent who had participated in the National Sports Festival, an event that brings together talents from across Nigeria to celebrate unity through sport.
Similarly, the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kano State Chapter, expressed saddened by the tragic news of the auto crash involving the Kano State contingent.
According to SWAN, the accident occurred in Dakstalle town, approximately 50 kilometers from Kano, resulting in the loss of 19 lives.
The victims include athletes, journalists, medical personnel, and administrators who were part of the Kano State delegation to the National Sports Festival.
The group noted that accident has sent shockwaves throughout the state, with many mourning the loss of the talented individuals.
“On behalf of SWAN Kano State Chapter, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased.
“May Almighty Allah forgive their shortcomings and grant them Jannatul Fiddausi as their final abode. We pray for the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
“We stand in solidarity with the affected families and the Kano State government during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured, and we hope for their speedy recovery.
“May Almighty Allah grant the bereaved families the strength to cope with this immense loss. We pray that the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace,” SWAN said in statement signed by its Chairman, Kano State Chapter.
