Tragedy struck in Nigeria when a vehicle carrying over 30 athletes from Kano State fell off a bridge, resulting in the deaths of 22 people. The team had just returned from the 22nd National Sports Festival, held in Ogun State, where they had represented their state with pride. The incident occurred near Dakatsalle, and some of the athletes had even called their families to announce their arrival in Kano before the fatal accident.
Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, a chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), has attributed the tragic loss of life to the deplorable state of roads in the country. In a statement issued on Sunday, Ajadi expressed his grief and condemned the circumstances surrounding the accident. He emphasized that the loss of 20 promising young athletes was avoidable and distressing, stating, “It is distressing that 20 promising young athletes who represented Kano State at the Gateway 2024 Games lost their lives in such avoidable circumstances.”
Ajadi’s statement highlighted the need for urgent attention to road safety and infrastructure by governments at all levels. He noted that the athletes were returning home in high spirits after representing their state in a national event, only to meet their untimely demise just days before the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations. The NNPP Southwest chieftain described the victims as “bright, talented individuals with great potential to serve their state and country,” emphasizing the significance of their loss.
Ajadi extended his sympathy to the families of the victims, acknowledging the profound impact of their loss on the community. He said, “It’s a loss that strikes every mother and father and indeed every citizen.” In a heartfelt prayer, Ajadi wished for the souls of the departed athletes to rest in peace, saying, “May the souls of these children be in peace and eternal rest.” The tragic incident has sent shockwaves throughout the country, highlighting the need for improved road infrastructure and safety measures to prevent such avoidable tragedies in the future.
