TRAGEDY ON THE HIGHWAY: 20 Kano Sports Athletes Lose Lives in Devastating Accident
By Hassan Kano
A heartbreaking accident claimed the lives of at least 20 athletes from Kano State who were returning from the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State. The incident occurred on May 31, 2025, at the Dakatsalle bridge, leaving many injured and scores of families in mourning.
According to eyewitnesses, a bus carrying 30 athletes plunged into the bridge, resulting in the catastrophic loss of life. Kano State Sports Commission Chairman, Umar Bala Fagge, confirmed the incident, stating that 19 bodies had been recovered so far.
“We are still assessing the situation, but it’s a very sad day for Kano sports,” Fagge said in an interview with Justice Watch News. The athletes were part of the Kano contingent that participated in the recently concluded National Sports Festival.
Former Vice President of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ado Salisu, expressed his shock and sadness over the incident. “It’s a terrible tragedy, and our hearts go out to the families of the victims,” he said.
Tragically, one of the deceased was the son of Salisu Jegus, a sports correspondent with Express Radio. The news of the accident has sent shockwaves through the sports community, with many calling for improved road safety measures.
The Kano State government has rushed medical teams to the scene, and injured athletes are being conveyed to Kura General Hospital for treatment. The exact number of injured athletes is still unknown, but reports indicate that many are receiving medical attention.
The cause of the accident is yet to be determined, and authorities are expected to launch an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident. Condolences have been pouring in from sports personalities and government officials, with many paying tribute to the athletes who lost their lives.
This tragic incident highlights the need for improved road safety measures in Nigeria. According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), over 1,000 people lose their lives in road accidents every year in Nigeria. The government must take concrete steps to address this pressing issue and prevent such tragedies in the future.
The sports community is in mourning, with many athletes, coaches, and sports administrators paying tribute to the victims. The National Sports Commission has promised to provide support to the families of the deceased athletes.
As the people of Kano State come to terms with this tragedy, one thing is clear: the loss of these young athletes is a devastating blow to the state’s sports development. May their souls rest in peace.
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