Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has declared a public holiday to mourn athletes who died in a tragic accident.
Abba expressed deep sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to the families of athletes who lost their lives.
The tragic accident claimed the lives of 22 athletes and left several others seriously injured.
The athletes, who were mostly in their youthful age, were returning home as Kano’s contingent from the National Sports Festival.
In a statement issued by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the state declared Monday, 2nd June as a public holiday to mourn with the victims’ families.
“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.”
The statement added that the delegation comprised athletes, coaches, and officials representing the state in various sporting events at the just concluded National Sports Festival.
“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,” the Governor said.
“On behalf of the government and the good people of Kano State, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. We mourn with you and share in your grief.”
Governor Yusuf described the tragedy as a dark moment for the entire state and called for calm and unity during this difficult period.
He assured that all necessary efforts are being made to support the victims and their families.
Gov Abba Yusuf who is presently away in Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj Operation directed that Monday, 2nd June 2025, be declared as a public holiday for the good people of Kano to pray and sympathize with the families of the victims.
