The House of Representatives has expressed deep sorrow over the death of 22 members of the Kano State contingent to the 22nd National Sports Festival in Ogun State, who perished in a road accident on Saturday.
The victims—athletes, coaches, health workers, journalists, and sports officials—were returning from the festival when their vehicle crashed along the Zaria-Kano Expressway, leaving several others injured.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, described the accident as a national tragedy and urged the Kano State Government to honour the deceased. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and the people of Kano State,” he said.
House Committee on Sports Chairman, Rep. Kabiru Ahmadu, called it a painful moment for the Nigerian sports family. “May Allah grant them peace and comfort their loved ones,” he said, pledging to engage stakeholders to strengthen safety measures for future sporting events.
The House extended condolences to the families, the Kano State Government, and the wider sports community, and urged authorities to provide the best possible care to the injured. They also called for financial and psychological support for the victims’ families.
House Spokesman Rep. Akin Rotimi Jr. assured the public of the House’s commitment to the wellbeing of Nigerians, stating, “These athletes embodied courage and national pride. Their legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.”
