By Comfort Olayinka
Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, Hon Kabiru Amadu, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of 22 athletes and officials from Kano State who lost their lives in a devastating auto crash while returning from the 2024 National Sports Festival in Ogun State.
In a condolence message released on Monday, Honourable Amadu widely known as “Mai Palace” extended heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved families, the Kano State Government, and the Federal Government of Nigeria.
“On behalf of the House Committee on Sports, I am deeply pained by the loss of lives in the auto crash involving young athletes, officials, and journalists on their way back from the festival in Ogun State,” the lawmaker said. “This is a shocking, tragic, and unfortunate incident—one that demands national mourning, not just in Kano, but across the country.”
Amadu, who represents Gusau/Tsafe Federal Constituency, described the crash as a “dark moment” in the nation’s sporting history, adding that the emotional toll of the news delayed his public reaction.
“It took me days to release this statement due to the sheer shock with which I received the devastating news. But ultimately, we belong to God, and to Him we shall return,” he said solemnly.
He also assured that the National Assembly stands ready to provide all necessary support to the Kano State Government in aiding the affected families during this painful time.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves across the country, casting a shadow over what was meant to be a celebration of youth, talent, and national unity at the sports festival.
