Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has declared Monday as public holiday to sympathize with families of the 22 Kano athletes who died in a tragic accident while on their way from Ogun State.
A statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, declared Monday, June 2, a public holiday to enable the people to pray for the victims and sympathise with their bereaved 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.”
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The statement added that the victims comprised athletes, coaches, and officials who represented 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.”
Earlier, the state government announced that it will give N1 million to each of the families of the 22 athletes who died in the road accident.
The announcement was made by the Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, during a visit to Nasarawa Hospital, where the bodies of the deceased were deposited.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, the deputy governor described the accident as a painful tragedy.
“This is a very sad day for Kano and the entire nation. These young athletes had just represented the state with pride at a national event, and some even won gold medals. Sadly, their lives were cut short just a few kilometers from home,” he said.
He also mentioned that the government would provide food and other relief items to support the grieving families.
He stated that Yusuf had ordered that financial support be given immediately to the families of the deceased and that proper medical care should be provided for the injured athletes.
“We have identified 20 of the victims here, while two others have already been taken home by their families. The Governor has asked the state government to fully support the affected families and make sure the injured get the best treatment,” Gwarzo said.
He assured that the government would continue supporting the families and handle the situation with care and responsibility.
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“On behalf of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and the people of Kano State, we send our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who died. May Allah forgive their sins and grant them Jannatul Firdaus,” he said.
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