By Mustapha Salisu
The Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has expressed appreciation to his Ogun State counterpart, Governor Dapo Abiodun, for his show of compassion following the tragic loss of some members of the Kano State contingent who died in a fatal road accident while returning from the 22nd National Sports Festival, Gateway Games, hosted in Ogun State.
The Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comr. Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, Conveyed the message on behalf of Governor Yusuf while receiving a delegation from Ogun State who were in the State on a condolence visit.
Gwarzo lauded Governor Abiodun for his prompt and thoughtful response, describing it as a true reflection of national unity and brotherhood.
“We sincerely appreciate this gesture of concern and support shown by the Ogun State Government. Barely hours after the tragedy occurred, the state promptly sent a delegation to commiserate with us. This is indeed a remarkable act of compassion that we will never forget,” he said.
He further noted that the government and people of Kano State are grateful for both the condolences and the financial support, which he described as a demonstration of the values that bind Nigerians together.
In her remarks, the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, who led the delegation and delivered Governor Abiodun’s message, expressed Ogun State’s deep sorrow over the incident.
Governor Abiodun described the late athletes as vibrant ambassadors of unity, hope, and the Nigerian spirit. He said their untimely passing, just 50 kilometers from home, was a heartbreaking loss that deeply affected the people of Ogun State.
“This is a wound that cuts to the core — a loss that words can barely describe. On behalf of the government and people of Ogun State, I extend our heartfelt sympathies to the families of the deceased, the Kano State Government, and the entire people of the state,” the message read.
As a mark of solidarity, the governor announced a financial commitment of ₦1 million to each bereaved family to help ease the burden during this time of grief.
He concluded by praying for Almighty Allah to grant the families strength and fortitude, and for the souls of the departed to find eternal rest.