‘Heartbreaking loss’ – Ganduje mourns Kano athletes killed in accident, says tragedy national blow

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, has expressed profound grief over the tragic passing of  20 young athletes from Kano State who died in a fatal road accident while returning from the National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, on Saturday , Ganduje described the incident as a heartbreaking tragedy that has dealt a heavy blow not only to the families of the deceased and the people of Kano State but also to the entire nation.

He paid tribute to the athletes as promising and dedicated youths who represented the future of Nigerian sports and were a source of pride for 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,” Ganduje said.

Extending his deepest condolences to the bereaved families, the government and people of Kano State, as well as the wider Nigerian sports community, Ganduje prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed and strength for those left behind.

Currently performing Hajj in Saudi Arabia, Ganduje urged the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident and to implement stronger safety measures to safeguard 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.