Kano State Government Mourns 22 Athletes, Declares Monday 2nd Public Holiday 

Kano State Government Mourns 22 Athletes, Declares Monday 2nd Public Holiday

Zainab Tanimu

Kaduna, Northwest Nigeria

Kano state government has declared Monday 2nd of June public holiday to mourn the loss of its 22 athletes involved in a tragic auto accident.

Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf and the entire people of Kano state sympathize with the families over the unfortunate accident that claimed the lives of these young sports enthusiasts returning from the National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta.

The delegation to the just concluded national sports festival comprised athletes, coaches, and officials representing the state in various sporting events.

In a statement issued by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, has expressed deep sorrow and heartfelt condolences.

“It is with a deeply saddened heart that I received the tragic news of the unfortunate incident which claimed the lives of 22 innocent citizens and left several others injured.

“On behalf of the Government and the good people of Kano State, we wish to extend our heartfelt condolences over the unfortunate incident that occurred to the brave Kano team members on their way back home along the Kano–Zaria expressway.”

“I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. We mourn with you and share in your grief.”

Governor Yusuf has assured victims and families of the deceased necessary support.

He described the tragedy as a dark moment for the entire state as he called for calm and unity.

Presently , governor Yusuf is away on 2025 hajj to Saudi Arabia. The state has called on imams and Muslims within and outside the state to pray for the departed soul and the families the fortitude to bear the loss.