BY OSABUOHIEN VIVIAN ROSE
The Kano State Government has approved N1m support to each of the families of 22 young athletes who lost their lives in an auto crash while returning from the National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The announcement was made on Saturday by the state deputy governor, Aminu Gwarzo, during a condolence visit to Nasarawa Hospital in Kano, where the remains of the deceased were deposited.
Gwarzo, who spoke on behalf of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, said the incident was heartbreaking not only to Kano State but to the entire nation.
“It is a very sad day for us in Kano and for the entire country. These young men were returning from a national assignment, having represented Kano with distinction. Some were even returning with gold medals. Tragically, their journey was cut short just a few kilometers from home.”
The victims, according to government officials, were part of the state’s contingent to the sports festival, a nationwide event aimed at fostering peace, unity, and youth development through athletic competition.
In addition to the financial assistance, Gwarzo disclosed that the state government would also provide food items and other relief materials to help cushion the impact of the loss on affected families.
“We have already identified 20 of the victims here, while two others have been taken home by their families. The Governor has directed that the state government stand fully with the bereaved families and ensure that those injured receive the best medical attention,” he added.
The Deputy Governor also visited the Murtala Mohammed Specialist Hospital, where seven injured athletes are receiving medical treatment. He sympathized with the survivors and assured them of the government’s commitment to their recovery.
The governor directed the immediate release of funds to support both the deceased families and the injured, emphasizing the need for a compassionate and coordinated response.
“On behalf of His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, and the people of Kano State, we extend our deepest condolences to the families of the deceased. May Allah forgive their shortcomings and grant them Jannatul Firdaus,” Gwarzo prayed.
