No fewer than 21 people, including athletes, have been confirmed dead in a tragic road accident involving the Kano State contingent returning from the just-concluded National Sports Festival in Ogun State.
A rescue team was dispatched to the scene of the accident on Daka Tsalle bridge, located about 50 kilometres from Kano city on Zaria road, shortly after the incident occurred at around 1 pm on Saturday.
Confirming the incident, the Chairman of the Kano chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Zahraddeen Saleh, said a cameraman and the Public Relations Officer of the Kano Sports Council were among those who lost their lives.
“Those that were dead include the Public Relations Officer of Kano Sports Commission and a photojournalist attached to Express Radio and an online medium”.
“This tragic incident occurred on Saturday in Dakatsalle town, about 50 kilometres from Kano, as the team was approaching the final stretch of their journey home.”
According to him “Those who lost their lives in the crash include athletes, a journalist, medical personnel, and sports administrators, according to preliminary reports from emergency responders and eyewitnesses.”
Details of the cause of the accident remain sketchy at the time of filing this report, but authorities have confirmed that emergency response teams were swiftly deployed to the scene, and the injured were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. However, the Kano State Government has expressed deep sorrow over the unfortunate motor accident involving members of the Kano State contingent to the National Sports Festival tagged ‘Gateway 2024’ held in Ogun State.
In an official statement issued on Saturday, by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Kano State, Mustapha Kwankwaso, extended heartfelt sympathy to the affected athletes, officials, and their families.
“This is a deeply painful moment for all of us. We are devastated by the news of the ghastly accident that occurred as our athletes were returning home after representing our great state with pride and commitment.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and the entire sporting community in Kano,”
He described the incident as a moment of mourning for the entire state, adding that the government stands firmly with the affected individuals and will ensure they receive the necessary medical attention and support.
Hon. Kwankwaso also appreciated the efforts of first responders and medical personnel attending to the victims and assured the public that a full report of the incident will be received and appropriate actions taken.
Ahmad Sorondinki
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