Grief hangs over Nigerian sports as 22 members of Kano State’s contingent tragically died in a road accident returning from the National Sports Festival.
The Edo State Sports Commission mourns the loss, calling it a devastating blow to athletes who had proudly represented their state and country in Ogun.
The Edo State Sports Commission has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of 22 members of the Kano State sports contingent, who were involved in a devastating road accident on their return from the just-concluded National Sports Festival held in Ogun State.
In a heartfelt condolence message, the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, joined the entire Nigerian sports community in mourning the lives lost. The victims included athletes, officials, and sports journalists who had proudly represented Kano State before meeting their untimely deaths in a crash at the Dakatsalle Bridge in Kura Local Government Area of Kano State.
The statement, signed by Kehinde Osagiede, Head of the Commission’s Public Relations and Media Department, described the incident as both “devastating” and “a monumental loss” to the Nigerian sports fraternity.
“This tragedy has shaken us all. These were patriotic Nigerians who answered the national call and showcased sportsmanship, only to lose their lives so abruptly. It is an irreparable loss, not just to Kano State but to the entire nation,” the statement read.
According to reports, several other athletes sustained injuries of varying severity in the accident, with the Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, Umar Fagge, confirming the details. The deceased were part of the team that had travelled to Ogun State to participate in Nigeria’s biggest multi-sport event, only for their journey home to end in disaster.
Hon. Enabulele, in his tribute, recalled a touching memory from the festival:
“I remember seeing some of the deceased individuals cheering on their teammates during the Kickboxing event that night. Just hours later, we received the heartbreaking news that they were gone. It is a reminder of how fragile life is.”
He extended profound sympathies to the Kano State Government, the Kano State Sports Commission, and the bereaved families. “Our hearts are with Chairman Umar Fagge, the athletes, and the good people of Kano. May God receive the souls of the departed and give strength to those mourning this unimaginable loss.”
The Edo State Sports Commission joins the nation in a moment of grief, standing in solidarity with the Kano sports community as they grapple with this tragedy.
The National Sports Festival, while a celebration of talent, unity, and sportsmanship, has now been marked by a gloomy shadow, one that reminds all stakeholders of the need for improved safety measures during team logistics.
As messages of condolence continue to pour in from across the country, the memory of the fallen athletes will live on as symbols of dedication, passion, and service to Nigerian sports.
May their souls rest in peace.
