Kano heartbreak: Deputy Speaker Kalu Mourns death of athletes

By Paul Dada

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has  described the death of the 21  young athletes as “painful, heartbreaking, and a devastating blow to the nation”.

The 21 athletes were members of  of the Kano State contingent returning from the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

They lost their lives in a road accident near Dakatsalle Bridge in Kura Local Government Area of Kano State. The accident, believed to have been caused by brake failure or excessive speed due to a long night trip, has left the state in mourning.

In a statement  signed by his Special Assistant, Press Affairs, Udora Orizu, Kalu commended the athletes’ dedication to excellence in sports, saying they had worked towards a brighter future for Nigeria.

Kalu extended his condolences to the families of the deceased, the Kano State Government, the National Sports Commission, and sports enthusiasts, praying for God’s comfort and strength during this difficult time.

The Federal Government has also reacted to the tragedy, with President Bola Tinubu describing it as a “devastating blow to the nation”. Tinubu paid tribute to the victims, highlighting their dedication and aspirations, and emphasized the need for improved safety standards in the nation’s transportation systems to prevent future accidents.