By Huldah Shado
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has commiserated with the government and people of Kano State over the tragic road crash that claimed the lives of 21 athletes returning from the just-concluded 22nd National Sports Festival, Gateway Games 2024, held in Ogun.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Abeokuta, Abiodun described the incident as heartbreaking and deeply distressing, noting that the deceased athletes were budding stars whose futures were filled with promise.
“It is indeed saddening that 21 gallant athletes who represented Kano State at the festival have lost their lives in such painful and traumatic circumstances,” the governor said.
“These were talented young Nigerians with much to offer the country. It is particularly tragic that their families, who eagerly awaited their return, will never see them again. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this terrible hour.”
Governor Abiodun expressed condolences to his Kano counterpart, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, the Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, Umar Bala Fagge, and the entire people of the state, urging strength and unity in the face of the loss.
He described the fallen athletes as heroes whose dedication and patriotism would be remembered, and prayed for the repose of their souls.
