Atiku mourns Kano athletes, urges urgent review of transport safety protocols

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep grief over the deaths of 22 athletes from Kano State who tragically lost their lives in a road accident while returning from the National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta.

In a message shared via his official X handle, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party described the deceased athletes as “dedicated, talented, and full of promise.” He noted that their sudden deaths are not only a profound loss to Kano State but to the entire nation.

“I am heartbroken by news of the tragic accident that took the lives of 21 Kano State athletes returning from the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta,” Atiku wrote. “These young men and women, cut down in their prime, represented the very best of our nation.”

Calling for systemic change, Atiku stressed the importance of strengthening transportation safety standards. “It is imperative to establish and strictly enforce safety protocols to prevent such devastating losses,” he added.

The former Vice President extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the Kano State Government, and Nigeria’s sports community, offering prayers for the peaceful repose of the departed souls.