Dapo Abiodun, Governor of Ogun state, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Kano State following the tragic death of members of the state’s contingent to the recently concluded National Sports Festival.
Gatekeepers News reports that Kano State finished 13th overall at the Gateway Games in Abeokuta, earning 29 medals, including six gold.
The bus conveying the contingents who were returning to Kano slipped off Dakatsalle bridge in Kura LGA of the state on Saturday. At least 20 athletes died, while several others sustained injuries.
Governor Abiodun expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as “devastating and traumatic.
He lamented the loss of young, talented athletes who had just represented Kano State with pride at the Gateway Games 2024 and were on their way home to be celebrated.
He said, “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 traumatizing and painful circumstances.”
“This is so painful. These were young people, budding stars who had a lot to give the country with their talents skills, and creativity. In particular, it is tragic that their beloved family members who were looking forward to receiving them after a memorable outing at the National Sports Festival will never get to see their beautiful faces again. Our prayers and thoughts are with their families and friends at this terrible hour.”
“Having represented Kano with pride and distinction and made friends with their compatriots from across the 36 states, the athletes were heading home with joy, only for their lives to be cut short just before setting foot on Kano soil.”
“We are deeply saddened by this incident, and we pray that Almighty Allah grants them eternal rest.”
“I commiserate with His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, and his cabinet, the Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, Umar Bala Fagge, and the people of Kano State over this most tragic and unfortunate incident. May we never witness this kind of incident again.”
