A devastating tragedy has rocked the Kano State sports community following the confirmation that at least 22 members of the state’s delegation to the 22nd National Sports Festival in Ogun State have died in a fatal road accident on their journey home.
According to multiple sources, the accident occurred late Friday night at the Dakatsalle Bridge in Kura Local Government Area of Kano State. A vehicle carrying 35 people — including athletes, journalists, medical personnel, and sports administrators — veered off the bridge and plunged into the river below.
Survivor Ado Salisu Gama, who is currently receiving treatment at the Kura General Hospital, spoke to newsmen on Saturday morning.
“Twenty-two people have been confirmed dead at Dakatsalle Bridge, just before Kura. The driver is also dead. As I speak to you, one more member has just died,” Gama said, visibly shaken.
He confirmed that emergency responders and good Samaritans rushed the injured to the Kura General Hospital, where several victims are still receiving care. “Some are in very critical condition,” he added.
The Kano State delegation was returning after a commendable outing at the national event, having secured 29 medals. What was meant to be a victorious return has now become a period of mourning and heartbreak for families and supporters.
Among those feared lost in the accident are top-performing athletes, members of the media who covered the games, medical officers attached to the team, and key administrative staff.
The atmosphere at the Kura General Hospital was tense and emotional on Saturday, as anxious relatives and well-wishers gathered in hopes of finding their loved ones among the survivors.
As of press time, no official statement has been issued by either the Kano State Government or organisers of the National Sports Festival. Rescue and recovery operations are still ongoing at the accident site, with more details expected to emerge in the coming hours.
The incident has cast a sombre shadow over what was otherwise a celebration of national sporting talent. Condolences have begun pouring in from across the country as the nation reels from the tragic loss.
