Gov Aliyu mourns Kano athletes, Niger flood victims in double tragedy

By Shafa’atu Suleiman, Sokoto

Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has expressed profound sorrow and solidarity with Kano and Niger states, following two separate tragedies that have claimed numerous lives and left communities in mourning.

In a statement released on Wednesday by his Press Secretary, Abubakar Bawa, Governor Aliyu 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 were returning home on Sunday after competing at the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State, when their lives were tragically cut short.

“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,” Governor Aliyu conveyed.

He extended his heartfelt condolences to Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf and the entire Kano community, emphasizing Sokoto’s unwavering solidarity during this difficult time. “This loss is not just Kano’s, it is Nigeria’s. We mourn together,” he added.

Governor Aliyu urged the families of the deceased athletes to view the incident as a divine test and to remain steadfast in their faith. He also called on authorities to reinforce safety protocols for travellers, particularly for athletes and young people representing the nation, to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

In a separate message, the Governor also offered his condolences to the people and government of Niger State following devastating floods that ravaged Makwa Local Government Area. The disaster, triggered by heavy rainfall, claimed several lives and caused extensive destruction to homes, farmlands, bridges, and other vital infrastructure.

Speaking from the holy land, where he is currently performing pilgrimage, Governor Aliyu characterized the flood as “a deeply unfortunate calamity” and offered prayers for the souls of those who perished. “This is a shared tragedy. The pain felt in Makwa resonates across Sokoto and indeed the entire nation,” he stated.

Acknowledging the historic bonds between Sokoto and Niger states, Governor Aliyu encouraged the flood victims to remain prayerful and strong in faith despite their profound losses. He further called for stronger disaster preparedness, improved infrastructure, and sustainable emergency response systems to prevent future tragedies of this magnitude.