2023 Presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has expressed heartbreak following the death of twenty-one (21) athletes of the Kano State contingent that participated inthe just concluded 22md National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The Kano State athletes were on their way home from the Festival when the “tragic accident” occurred.
The former Vice President said, “their untimely death is a profound loss to their families and the entire country”, and said, we need to “put in place and enforce safety measures to stem accidents and prevent loss of lives”.
The Gateway Games 2024 had more than 14,000 athletes participate in various sporting events; it started on 16 May and concluded on Friday 30 May, 2025, with Team Delta emerging winner with a total of 337 medals.
The feat makes it Team Delta’s fifth consecutive NSF triumph and ninth overall.
In his condolence, Atiku wrote: “I am heartbroken by news of the tragic accident that claimed the lives of 21 Kano State athletes returning from the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta.
“These young men and women who have been cut in their prime represent the very best of our nation; dedicated, talented, and full of promise. Their untimely passing is a profound loss not only to their families and the people of Kano but to the entire country.
“It is imperative that we put in place and enforce safety measures to stem accidents and prevent loss of lives.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the Kano State Government, and Nigeria’s sporting community.
“May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may the injured recover swiftly.”
