June 01, (THEWILL) – Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has declared Monday, June 2, 2025, a public holiday in sympathy with families of the 22 athletes of the state who died on Saturday, while returning from the National Sports Festival.
This is contained in a statement issued by the governor’s Spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Sunday.
Dawakin Tofa said the governor had expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident and extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims.
THEWILL reports that the victims, who were members of the Kano State contingents and mostly in their youthful age, lost their lives while returning from the festival, which was held in Ogun State.
“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.
He 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.
“While His Excellency is away in Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj Operation, he directed that Monday, 2nd June 2025, be declared a public holiday for the good people of Kano to pray and sympathise with the families of the victims.
“The state also calls on Imams and all muslims within and outside Kano to pray for the departed souls and their respective families to bear the loss”, the statement added.
Abdullahi Yusuf is a seasoned journalist, communicator and was previously the Deputy Editor-In-Chief and Zonal Manager, News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, Jos, where he retired on December 15, 2021
