Tragedy Strikes as Fatal Accident Claims Lives of Kano Contingent Returning from National Sports Festival
A tragic accident has cast a dark shadow over the 22nd National Sports Festival, as a vehicle carrying members of the Kano State contingent crashed in Dakstalle, approximately 50 kilometres from Kano, on their return journey from the event hosted in Ogun State.
According to yet-to-be-confirmed reports, 19 individuals lost their lives in the devastating crash. Among the deceased are athletes, a journalist, medical personnel, and sports administrators who had participated in the festival, which officially concluded on May 29, with contingents departing on May 30.
A video that has since emerged online shows the wreckage of the vehicle and efforts by bystanders to assist survivors before emergency services arrived. The circumstances surrounding the crash are still under investigation, and authorities have not yet released an official casualty figure.
The Kano State Government is expected to issue a statement in the coming hours, as families of the victims await confirmation of the identities of those involved. The atmosphere in Kano is one of mourning, with many expressing shock and sorrow over the tragic end to what had been a celebration of national unity and athletic excellence.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other emergency services are on-site, and investigations into the cause of the accident are ongoing.
This incident marks a somber end to the National Sports Festival, which had brought together athletes from across the country in a celebration of sport, youth, and national pride.
