Kano State is in mourning following a devastating road accident that claimed the lives of several athletes, coaches, and officials returning from the recently concluded National Sports Festival in Ogun State. The tragedy occurred on Saturday at Gadar Yankifi in Garun Mallam Local Government Area, just a few kilometres from Kano metropolis.
Deputy Senate President Senator Barau Jibrin expressed deep sorrow over the incident in a condolence message posted on his official Facebook page. He described the crash as “heartbreaking” and prayed for divine mercy on the deceased and a swift recovery for the injured.
“I just received the sad news of the accident involving members of the Kano State contingent returning from the just-concluded National Sports Festival in Ogun State. May Allah SWT grant all those who lost their lives Jannatul Firdaus and quicken the recovery of the injured,” Senator Jibrin wrote.
The late athletes were part of Kano’s delegation to the national sporting event, representing the state in various competitions. The accident has sent shockwaves throughout the state and the nation, prompting Governor Abba Yusuf to describe the event as a “dark moment” for Kano.
In response, the Kano State Government has declared Monday, June 2, 2025, a public holiday to honor the deceased athletes. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has attributed the crash to speeding, which resulted in the death of 21 athletes.
Senator Jibrin extended his condolences to the families of the victims, the Kano State Government, the sports community, and the people of Kano. The nation continues to rally around the bereaved families during this difficult time.
