Tragedy Strikes As 22 Kano Athletes Die In Fatal Accident

At least 22 athletes from the Kano State contingent have been confirmed dead following a devastating motor accident at Dakatsalle Bridge in Kura Local Government Area of Kano State.

The athletes were returning from the recently concluded National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State, when the fatal incident occurred.

Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, Umar Fagge, confirmed the tragedy, explaining that the vehicle transporting 30 athletes veered off the bridge and plunged into a ravine, claiming the lives of 22 people. Several others sustained various injuries.

Although the exact cause of the accident is yet to be determined, emergency responders were promptly dispatched to the scene. According to Ado Salisu, a former Vice President of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), the injured were taken to Kura General Hospital for urgent medical care.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), through its Kano Sector Command Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Labaran, also confirmed the incident. However, he stated that the casualty figures were still being verified, as the situation remained fluid.

“We have just received initial reports of the crash, so we cannot confirm the total number of fatalities or injured persons at this time,” Labaran said.

The athletes had represented Kano State with dedication and excellence during the national competition, making the tragedy upon their return even more heartrending.

Government Response

In reaction to the heartbreaking event, the Kano State Government issued a statement through the Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso.

“This is an incredibly sorrowful moment for all of us. We are heartbroken over the terrible accident involving our athletes who were on their way home after proudly representing Kano State. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and the entire sports community in the state,” Mr. Kwankwaso said.

He described the incident as a shared tragedy for the people of Kano and pledged full government support for the victims and their families, including medical treatment and other assistance.

Mr. Kwankwaso also commended the emergency and medical teams for their rapid response and assured the public that a comprehensive investigation will be carried out, with necessary measures to follow.