Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, has extended his condolences to the people of Kano and Niger states following two devastating tragedies that claimed multiple lives in recent days.
In a statement released by his Press Secretary, Abubakar Bawa, on Wednesday, the governor described the death of 22 Kano athletes in a road accident as a “national tragedy” that has thrown the entire country into mourning.
The athletes, who had just concluded participation at the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State, died in a fatal crash on their return journey last Sunday.
“Their sudden demise is painful and deeply sorrowful,” Governor Aliyu said. “We pray Almighty Allah forgives their shortcomings, grants them Aljannah Firdaus, and comforts their families, friends, and the people of Kano.”
He offered heartfelt condolences to the Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, and assured the people of Kano of Sokoto’s solidarity in this difficult moment.
“This loss is not just Kano’s—it is Nigeria’s. We mourn together,” he said.
Governor Aliyu also urged relevant authorities to strengthen safety measures for road users, particularly for athletes and young Nigerians representing the country in various capacities.
In a separate message from Saudi Arabia, where he is performing pilgrimage, the governor also sympathised with the people and government of Niger State over the destructive floods that swept through Mokwa Local Government Area, claiming lives and destroying homes, farmlands, and critical infrastructure.
“The disaster in Mokwa is a deeply unfortunate calamity,” he said. “This is a shared tragedy. The pain felt in Mokwa resonates across Sokoto and the entire nation.”
Recognising the longstanding ties between Sokoto and Niger states, Governor Aliyu called on victims to remain steadfast in prayer and resilient in the face of the disaster.
He also advocated for improved disaster preparedness, stronger infrastructure, and sustainable emergency response systems to mitigate the impact of such incidents in the future.
