NATIONAL TRAGEDY: 20 Kano Athletes Dead in Fatal Crash Returning from Sports Festival
Byline: IDNNSports Desk
Nigeria is reeling from a devastating loss as 20 athletes from the Kano State contingent died in a fatal motor accident on Saturday while returning from the 2024 National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The accident occurred at the Dakatsalle Bridge in Kura Local Government Area of Kano State. A bus carrying 30 athletes reportedly plunged off the bridge, resulting in one of the darkest moments in Nigeria’s recent sports history.
“We Have Counted 19 Dead Bodies” — Sports Commission Chair
Speaking to reporters, Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, Umar Fagge, confirmed the tragedy:
“As I am talking to you now, we have counted 19 dead bodies.”
Several other athletes sustained serious injuries and were rushed to Kura General Hospital for emergency treatment.
Nation in Mourning, Safety Under Scrutiny
The Public Relations Officer of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Kano Sector Command, Abdullahi Labaran, confirmed that the crash had been reported but said the agency was still verifying the casualty figures.
Former Vice President of SWAN, Ado Salisu, corroborated the incident, stating that multiple victims were in critical condition.
Mounting Questions Over Athlete Safety
This tragedy has sparked a national outcry, with the sports community, lawmakers, and citizens demanding:
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Safe and regulated transport for athlete delegations
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Mandatory vehicle inspections for official assignments
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A full investigation into the cause of the crash