“We have counted 19 dead bodies,” says Sports Commission chair after fatal return trip from NSF.
Kano State is mourning after a tragic road crash claimed 19 lives from its National Sports Festival contingent.
The accident occurred Saturday in Dakatsalle, about 50km from Kano, as the team returned from the NSF held in Ogun State.
Victims included athletes, a journalist, medical staff, and officials. The vehicle reportedly carried 30 people.
“As I am talking to you now, we have counted 19 dead bodies,” said Umar Fagge, Chairperson of the State Sports Commission.
The injured were taken to Kura General Hospital. The FRSC confirmed the incident but said investigations were ongoing.
SWAN Chair, Zahraddeen Saleh, confirmed the death of the Sports Commission’s PRO and a photojournalist with Express Radio.
Kano had placed 13th overall, with 6 gold, 13 silver, and 10 bronze medals.
Youth and Sports Commissioner, Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso, called it a “deeply painful moment,” assuring government support.
Kano has pledged to review travel safety measures for future events.