Tragedy strikes as 22 members of Kano sports delegation die in road accident

DDM News

A devastating road accident has claimed the lives of at least 22 members of the Kano State sports delegation returning from the National Sports Festival held in Ogun State.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) has gathered that the victims, who had travelled to represent Kano State in the recently concluded sports festival, were involved in a fatal crash while making their way back home.

The incident occurred at the Dakatsalle Bridge in Kura Local Government Area of Kano State.

Reports indicate that the bus carrying the delegation lost control and plunged off the bridge, leading to immediate fatalities and serious injuries among the passengers.

The ill-fated vehicle was reportedly carrying 35 individuals at the time of the crash, including athletes, coaches, journalists, and other sports officials.

Eyewitnesses and survivors described the scene as horrifying, with victims scattered across the accident site.

Ado Salisu Gama, one of the survivors who is currently receiving medical care at Kura General Hospital, confirmed that 22 people died on the spot, including the driver.

He added that the death toll could rise, as several others remain in critical condition.

Speaking from his hospital bed on Saturday morning, Salisu said another team member had died shortly before the interview, increasing the confirmed number of fatalities.

The delegation had just completed their participation in the National Sports Festival hosted in Ogun State, where they reportedly won 29 medals across various events.

The National Sports Festival is Nigeria’s premier multi-sport event, bringing together athletes from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to compete in a wide range of sporting disciplines.

The Kano State team had performed commendably at the festival, earning praise from sports officials and supporters.

Their return journey, however, turned tragic and has plunged the state and sporting community into mourning.

Officials from the Kano State Ministry of Youth and Sports are yet to issue a formal statement, but sources confirm that efforts are ongoing to identify the deceased and support the survivors.

Emergency responders and hospital staff at Kura General Hospital are working round the clock to treat the injured.

Meanwhile, sympathies and tributes have started pouring in from across the country as news of the tragedy spreads.

Many have described the accident as a national tragedy, given the calibre of persons involved and the circumstances surrounding their return from representing their state.

Further details are expected in the coming days as investigations continue and more information becomes available from hospital officials and government representatives.

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