“We Have Lost Our Stars” — Kano Declares Work-Free Day to Mourn 20 Athletes Killed in NSF Crash
Date: June 1, 2025 | Byline: IDNN Sports Desk
The Kano State Government has declared Monday, June 2, 2025 a work-free day to mourn the tragic deaths of 20 young athletes who died in a horrific motor accident while returning from the 2024 National Sports Festival (NSF) in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf made the announcement during a solemn press briefing, describing the incident as “the darkest moment in the history of Kano’s sports movement.”
“These were our champions. We trained them to bring home medals — not in body bags. Today, we grieve.”
How the Tragedy Happened
The accident occurred at the Dakatsalle Bridge in Kura LGA of Kano when a bus carrying 30 returning athletes plunged off the bridge into a ditch.
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19 bodies confirmed at the scene
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1 more died later from injuries
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10 others remain in critical condition at Kura General Hospital
The athletes were part of Kano’s silver-winning team in various track and field events and team sports.
State Honors, National Questions
Governor Yusuf ordered all flags to fly at half-mast and said:
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Families of the deceased will receive full state-sponsored burial rites
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Injured athletes will be airlifted for advanced medical care
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An independent panel will investigate the transport arrangements that led to the crash
“Our young ones cannot die like this again. We demand answers. We demand reform.”
Public Outcry: Fix Athlete Transport Now
Sports stakeholders, including the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) and the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, have demanded:
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Safer transport logistics for athletes
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Pre-travel vehicle certification by FRSC
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Post-event wellness screening and travel delay insurance
