Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has declared Monday, June 2, a public holiday in honour of the 22 athletes and officials who tragically lost their lives in a road accident while returning from the National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The announcement was made on Sunday via a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature, who conveyed the government’s deep sorrow over the devastating loss.
“On behalf of the government and the good people of Kano State, we extend our heartfelt condolences over the unfortunate incident that occurred along the Kano–Zaria expressway,” the statement read.
Governor Yusuf, currently in Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage, described the event as a dark moment for Kano State, expressing his profound grief at the tragic loss of lives.
“It is with a deeply saddened heart that I received the tragic news of the unfortunate incident which claimed the lives of 22 innocent citizens and left several others injured,” he said.
The governor called for calm and unity, assuring that the state government would provide full support to the bereaved families and injured survivors. He also urged religious leaders and residents to offer prayers for the deceased and strength for their loved ones.
The victims were part of the state’s delegation returning from a national sporting event, and the accident has sparked an outpouring of grief and condolences across the country.
