By Kolawole Ojebisi
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State, has declared Monday, June 2, 2025, as public holiday in the state to sympathise with families of the victims of an auto accident that claimed many lives and left several others seriously injured.
Yusuf also extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, praying that God will give them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
The governor made this move following the ghastly accident that happened on Saturday, claiming lives of 22 of the Kano’s contingent from the National Sports Festival in Ogun State
The victims, who were mostly in their youthful age, were returning home when their bus fell off a bridge some kilometres from Kano.
This is contained in a statement issued, on Sunday, by the governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.
“On behalf of the government and the good people of Kano State, we wish to extend our heartfelt condolences over the unfortunate incident that occurred to the brave Kano team members on their way back home along the Kano–Zaria expressway.”
The statement added that the delegation comprised athletes, coaches, and officials representing the state in various sporting events at the just concluded National Sports Festival.
“It is with a deeply saddened heart that I received the tragic news of the unfortunate incident which claimed the lives of 22 innocent citizens and left several others injured.
“On behalf of the government and the good people of Kano State, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. We mourn with you and share in your grief,” the governor said.
Governor Yusuf described the tragedy as a dark moment for the entire state and called for calm and unity during this difficult period.
He assured that all necessary efforts are being made to support the victims and their families.