NNPP Chieftain Blames Poor Road for Deaths of 22 Kano Athletes

A NNPP Chieftain Blames Poor Road Infrastructure for Deaths of 22 Kano Athletes of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic deaths of 22 athletes from Kano State, attributing the incident to the country’s inadequate road infrastructure.

The athletes lost their lives in a devastating road accident after their bus veered off the Dakatsalle Bridge in the Kura Local Government Area of Kano State. The tragic incident occurred as the young sportsmen and women were returning from the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, recently held in Ogun State.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Ajadi described the event as heartbreaking and entirely avoidable. He emphasized the urgent need for governments at all levels to invest in and upgrade Nigeria’s road infrastructure to prevent such needless loss of life in the future.

“It is indeed distressing that 20 young athletes who proudly represented Kano State at the Gateway 2024 Games have lost their lives under such painful and preventable circumstances,” he said.

Ajadi lamented the timing of the tragedy, coming just days before the Eid-el-Kabir celebration. He noted that the athletes were returning home filled with pride, having showcased their talents on a national platform.

“These were rising stars, brimming with potential and ready to contribute meaningfully to their state and the nation through their skill, passion, and creativity,” he added.

He extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, describing the loss as one that touches the hearts of all Nigerians, especially parents.

“It is a tragedy beyond words that the families who waited eagerly for their return will now never see them again. My thoughts and prayers are with them in this time of unspeakable grief,” he said.

Ajadi also offered his sympathies to Governor Abba Yusuf and the people of Kano State, praying that they find strength and comfort as they mourn the loss of these promising young lives.

Calling for urgent government intervention, he appealed to both state and federal authorities to prioritize road safety and infrastructure development across the country.