President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has received with deep sorrow the tragic news of an accident involving members of the Kano State contingent who were returning from the recently concluded National Sports Festival in Ogun State.
Sources confirmed that the fatal accident occurred in Kura Local Government Area (LGA) of Kano State while the team were on their way back home after the close of the festival, which brought together athletes from across the country.
Reports said the incident happened when the bus, which was carrying at least 35 athletes and officials fell off a bridge in the Kura area.
Some of the occupants were confirmed dead on the spot, while the injured were rushed to the General Hospital in Kura for medical attention.
One of the survivors, who spoke to Premier Radio 102.7 FM, described the scene as horrific and said many of the victims sustained serious injuries.
President Tinubu, in a statement by Presidential Spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, said: “On behalf of the Federal Government, the President extends heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Kano State, as well as to the families and loved ones of those who died in the accident.
“This is a devastating blow to the nation. It casts a shadow over the National Sports Festival, a celebration of unity, talent, and excellence. It has long served as a platform for discovering and nurturing athletes who bring pride to Nigeria on both national and international stages.”
President Tinubu paid tribute to the accident victims, whose dedication and aspirations in their various vocations embodied the resilient Nigerian spirit.
He affirmed that the greatest honour the country can accord them is to take concrete steps to prevent such tragedies in the future and improve safety standards across the nation’s transportation systems.
The President prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed and asked God Almighty to grant strength and comfort to the bereaved families.
Picture courtesy of Zagazola Makama
