By Hussaini Ibrahim Sulaiman
The Governor of Jigawa State, Malam Umar Namadi, on Wednesday, paid a condolence visit to the Kano State Government over the tragic incident that claimed the lives of 22 athletes from Kano State.
Governor Namadi, who expressed deep sorrow over the loss, described the incident as a national tragedy. He emphasized the strong historical and social bond between Jigawa and Kano States, affirming that the people of Jigawa share in the grief of their Kano counterparts.
“These were very talented and dependable young men. As Muslims, we believe that death can come at any time and in any place. The best we can do now is to pray for their souls,” the governor stated.
“On behalf of the people and government of Jigawa State, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the people, and the government of Kano State over this painful loss. We pray that Allah (SWT) grants the departed souls Aljannatul Firdaus.”
In response, the Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, expressed profound gratitude to Governor Namadi for the visit, especially considering his tight schedule.
“We’re deeply touched by your concern and visit. We understand you just returned from a long trip to India, yet you still found it important to come and commiserate with us despite the stress,” he said.
Gwarzo recounted that the deceased athletes had just achieved an unprecedented feat for Kano State: “They were bringing home a historic trophy—something Kano had never won before. They secured 29 trophies in total, including six gold medals. They were only about 50 kilometers away from Kano when the tragic accident occurred.”
In a similar vein, the Deputy Governor also received condolence delegations from Gombe and Kaduna States.
Representing the Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, was Professor Benjamin Kumai, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports. He described the loss as a national tragedy and presented a formal condolence letter from Governor Sani to the Kano State Government.
The Gombe State delegation was led by Ahmed Shuaibu Gara, former Special Adviser on Sports to former Kano State Governor, Engr. Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. Gara, on behalf of the Gombe State Government, extended condolences and lamented the loss of the 22 athletes who died in the accident while returning from a competition in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
He also suggested that the Kano State Government consider building a structure in memory of the deceased and naming it in their honor as a legacy within the realm of sports in the state.
In response, Deputy Governor Gwarzo appreciated Gara.and Kumai for the visit and acknowledged the recommendation, assuring that the state government would give it due consideration.