By: Mukhtar Yahaya Shehu
Kano State remains in deep mourning following the tragic accident that claimed the lives of 22 of its promising citizens—sports ambassadors returning from a national engagement in Abeokuta, Ogun State. The devastating incident occurred just kilometers from entering Kano, when their bus skidded off a narrow bridge. The loss has cast a long shadow over the state and beyond.
In a statement signed by press secretary cabinet office Musa Tanko Muhammad said Since the heartbreaking news broke, the Government of Kano State has continued to receive an overwhelming wave of condolences and sympathies from within and outside the state. Prominent individuals, government officials, and well-meaning citizens have extended heartfelt support to the bereaved families and to the entire Kano community.
Acting on behalf of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf—who was on pilgrimage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at the time of the incident—the Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, and the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Umar Farouq Ibrahim, have been actively coordinating government response efforts. Their roles have included receiving the remains of the deceased at Muhammad Abdullahi Wase General Hospital Mortuary, visiting the injured at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, and attending to visiting sympathizers.
In a show of genuine compassion, the state government announced a financial donation of one million naira (₦1,000,000) to each of the bereaved families, along with food items. Full medical care has also been pledged for the injured survivors.
One of the most notable gestures came from Hon. Engineer Sagir I. Koki, Member of the Federal House of Representatives representing Kano Municipal. He visited the families of the deceased and generously offered a 50kg bag of rice and ₦50,000 to each of the 22 bereaved families—an act that has been deeply appreciated by the government and the affected communities.
The Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Umar Farouq Ibrahim, expressed his sincere appreciation to all individuals, organizations, and sister states who have shown solidarity with Kano during this profoundly difficult period. He acknowledged those who visited in person, those who called, and even those who reached out through other means—affirming that every message of support has brought comfort and strength to the grieving families.
In honor of the victims and to allow the state to collectively grieve, Monday, June 2, 2025, was declared a work-free day across Kano State. Residents were urged to dedicate the day to prayers for the repose of the departed souls.
As the Islamic world enters the sacred period of Arafat, the SSG appealed to all faithful to take the opportunity to remember not only the recent victims but all departed souls—from the time of our forefather, Prophet Adam (AS), to the present day.
The Government of Kano State reiterates its commitment to honoring the memory of these young ambassadors whose contributions brought pride and recognition to the state. Though their journey was cut short, their legacy will live on in the hearts of all Kano people.
May Allah (SWT) grant the departed eternal rest in Jannatul Firdaus, heal the injured, and comfort their families.
