20 Kano contingent members to National Sports Festival die in road crash
Tragedy: 20 Team Kano athletes die in road accident after National Sports Festival
Twenty members of the Kano contingent died in an auto crash while returning from the just concluded National Sports Festival (NSF) in Ogun State.
The dead persons, who were part of the state’s contingent to Sports Festival died when the vehicle conveying them back to Kano was involved in a crash in Dakatsalle town, 50 kilometres to Kano, on Saturday.
Zahraddeen Saleh, chairman of the Sport Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kano State chapter, confirmed the incident.
Saleh said that those who died in the accident included athletes, journalists, medical personnel and administrators.
The State Commissioner of Youth and Sport Development, Mustapha Kwankwaso, also confirmed the incident in an official statement made available to journalists in the state.
He said that others who sustained injuries were responding to treatment.
Kwankwaso expressed deep sorrow over the unfortunate incident.
On behalf of the Kano State Government and the people of the state, he extended heartfelt sympathies to the affected athletes, officials, and their families.
“This is a deeply painful moment for all of us. We are devastated by the news of the ghastly accident that occurred as our athletes were returning home after representing our great state with pride and commitment. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and the entire sporting community in Kano,” Kwankwaso stated.
He described the incident as a moment of mourning for the entire state, adding that the government stands firmly with the affected individuals and will ensure they receive the necessary medical attention and support.
Kwankwaso also appreciated the efforts of first responders and medical personnel attending to the victims and assured the public that a full report of the incident will be received and appropriate actions taken.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the commitment of the Kano State Government to the welfare and safety of all athletes and officials who represent the state in national and international sporting engagements
