The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of 20 young athletes from Kano State who died in a road accident while returning from the National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
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In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje described the incident as a painful tragedy that has affected not only the families of the victims and the people of Kano but the entire country.
“These were dedicated and promising athletes who represented hope for the future of Nigerian sports and brought pride to Kano State,” he said.
Ganduje, who is currently in Saudi Arabia for Hajj, emphasized that the athletes embarked on the journey in the spirit of patriotism and unity. He said their loss in such a tragic and unexpected way was heartbreaking.
The former Kano State governor extended his condolences to the affected families, the Kano State Government, and the entire Nigerian sporting community. He also prayed for the repose of the departed souls and strength for their loved ones.
Ganduje urged relevant authorities to investigate the cause of the crash and take necessary steps to improve the safety of athletes during future national events.
“May Almighty Allah grant the families the strength to bear this huge loss and grant eternal rest to the departed,” he added.
