Governor Ahmed Aliyuof Sokoto State, with great sorrow mourns the twin tragedies that befell Kano and Niger states, claiming many lives.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, 4th June, by his Press Secretary, Abubakar Bawa, the governor described the death of 22 Kano athletes in a recent road accident as a “national tragedy” that has cast a dark cloud over the entire country.
The athletes, who had just participated in a competition at the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State, lost their lives while returning home on Sunday.
“Their sudden demise is both painful and deeply sorrowful. We pray Almighty Allah to forgive their shortcomings, grant them Aljannah Firdaus, and comfort their families, friends, and the good people of Kano,” the governor said.
Aliyu also sent his heartfelt condolences to the Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, and the entire Kano community, emphasising that Sokoto stands in solidarity with them during this moment of grief.
“This loss is not just Kano’s, it is Nigeria’s. We mourn together,” he added.
While encouraging families of the victims to see the incident as a divine test and to remain unwavering in faith, Aliyu called on authorities to enhance safety protocols for travellers, most especially athletes and youth representing the nation.
In a separate message, the governor also commiserated with the people and government of Niger State following the devastating floods that ravaged Makwa Local Government Area.
The disaster, brought about by heavy rainfall, claimed the lives of several people and destroyed homes, farmlands, bridges, and other infrastructure.
Speaking from the holy land, where he is performing pilgrimage, Aliyu described the flood as “a deeply unfortunate calamity” and offered prayers for the souls of the departed.
“This is a shared tragedy. The pain felt in Makwa resonates across Sokoto and indeed the entire nation,” he said.
He acknowledged the historic bonds between Sokoto and Niger states and urged the victims to remain prayerful and strong in faith, in spite of their losses.
The governor also called for stronger disaster preparedness, improved infrastructure, and sustainable emergency response systems to forestall future tragedies.