A delegation from Ogun State, headed by Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, visited Kano on Monday to express condolences to the state government and the bereaved families of the 22 athletes who tragically lost their lives in a road accident.
Salako-Oyedele conveyed Governor Dapo Abiodun’s sympathies and announced an initial support of ₦1 million for each victim’s family.
“We know that the governor is out of the state on Hajj but we felt we had to be here to show our support to him, the government, and the people of Kano State in these trying times,” Salako-Oyedele said.
“This is a devastating loss for Kano State, for the athletics community, and especially for the families and friends of the individuals who were affected by this tragic incident. Our prayer is that this kind of thing will never happen again and that Allah accepts the return of the deceased to Him, forgive their shortcomings, and grant them Aljanat Firdaus,” she added.
The Ogun delegation included the Secretary to the State Government, Tokunbo Talabi; Commissioner for Sports Development, Wasiu Isiaka; Executive Secretary of the Gateway Games LOC, Kweku Tandoh, and other officials and athletes.
The Ogun delegation was received at the Government House in Kano by the Deputy Governor, Aminu Gwarzo, who thanked the Ogun State Government for the kind gesture and solidarity.
“We are not in doubt about Governor Abiodun’s concern. He called to commiserate with the government and people of Kano State shortly after the incident. This visit and the support extended today reaffirm that concern,” said Gwarzo.
The tragic accident occurred around 12:30 pm on Saturday at Gadar Yankifi in Garun Malam Local Government Area, involving a Toyota Coaster Bus with the registration number KN041 A17.
A survivor, Ado Salisu, revealed to journalists that the incident happened mere hours before their anticipated arrival in Kano.
According to a statement from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Kano Sector Command, the bus was carrying 32 occupants—31 male adults and one female adult. Tragically, 22 people died at the scene, while the remaining passengers suffered varying degrees of injuries.