By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano
The National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje; Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau I. Jibrin; former Governor of Kano state, Malam Ibrahim Shekarau; and Director General, National Productivity Centre, Dr. Baffa Babba Dan’agundi, have expressed grief over the death of 22 Kano athletes who lost their lives during a fatal accident at Bebeji Local Government Area, Kano, on their way from the 2025 National Sports Festival, held in Abeokuta, Ogun state.
A Statement issued by Ganduje’s Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, indicated that Ganduje described the incident as “a heartbreaking tragedy that had dealt a heavy blow not only to the bereaved families and the people of Kano State but to the entire nation.”
He described the deceased athletes as promising and dedicated youths who embodied the future of Nigerian sports and the pride of Kano State.
“This is a deeply sorrowful moment. These young athletes travelled in the spirit of unity, patriotism and excellence to represent our state and nation. To lose them in such a tragic and untimely manner is a devastating national loss,” Gwnduj said.
The APC National chairman extended his deepest condolences to the grieving families, the Government and people of Kano State, and the wider Nigerian sports community.
He offered prayers for the peaceful repose of the souls of the deceased and comfort and strength for those left behind.
Ganduje, who is in Saudi Arabia, performing Hajj, also called on the relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate the cause of the accident and implement stronger safety protocols to protect Nigerian athletes during future national assignments.
“May Almighty Allah (SWT) grant the families the strength to bear this irreparable loss and grant eternal rest to the departed souls,” he added.
Senator Barau’s own message, on Saturday, said: “I just received the sad news of the accident involving members of the Kano State contingent returning from the just-concluded National Sports Festival (NSF) in Ogun State.
“According to media reports, the tragic incident occurred today in Dakatsalle town as the team approached the final stretch of their journey home.
“May Allah SWT grant all those who lost their lives Jannatul Firdaus and quicken the recovery of the injured.
“I extend my condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, the sports community and the entire people of the state.”
Malam Shekarau, in a Statement signed by his Media Adviser, Prof. Sule Ya’u Sule, expressed his deep condolences to the family, the people and government of Kano State, on the tragic accident at Dakatsallewhich claimed the lives of 21 Athletes and some officials.
“As the State is waiting to receive this patriotic son of Kano who has done the state proud at the recently concluded National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, only to be greeted with such devastating news.
“We are consoled with the fact that the young Athletes met their death while on State assignment,” the Statement added.
He prayed the Almighty to grant them eternal rest and the family the fortitude to bear the loss.
Dan’agundi, in his message, expressed deep sorrow and heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and entire people of Kano State over the tragic loss of members of the Kano State contingent who participated in the recently concluded National Sports Festival held in Ogun State.
According to him, “Among the deceased was the promising young Bilal Ahmad (Junior), who once played for FC KAROTA during the tenure of Dr. Baffa Babba Dan’agundi as Managing Director of Kano Road and Traffic Agency (KAROTA).
“Bilal’s dedication, discipline, and sportsmanship left a lasting impression on all who knew him, and his passing represents a significant loss to the sports community in Kano and beyond.”
Dan’agundi also extended his sympathies to the family of Alhaji Ahmad Musa, grieving the painful loss of their beloved son.
He noted the deep pain such a tragedy brings, especially in a moment meant to celebrate the talents and achievements of young athletes representing their state.
“This is a dark moment for Kano State. We have lost not just athletes, but vibrant, ambitious youths who carried the hopes and pride of our state on their shoulders. Their contributions will never be forgotten. May Allah grant the deceased eternal rest and comfort their grieving families,” Dan Agundi mourned.
The Director General called for prayers for the souls of the departed and urged authorities to ensure the safety and welfare of athletes during all national engagements.