In the wake of the heartbreaking road accident involving athletes and officials returning from the Gateway 2024 National Sports Festival (NSF) hosted in Ogun State, Governor Dapo Abiodun has extended his condolences and financial support to the victims’ families.
On Sunday, Governor Abiodun dispatched a high-powered delegation to Kano State to commiserate with the government and people of the state. The governor also approved the sum of N1 million each to the 31 families affected by the tragedy, amounting to a total support fund of N31 million as an initial gesture of empathy.
The delegation was led by the Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, and included the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, the Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, and the Executive Secretary of the Local Organising Committee for Gateway Games 2024, Dr. Kweku Tandoh.
Also in the delegation were the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports, Comrade Lanre Ogunyinka, Team Ogun’s coach, Idris Oguntayo, as well as two athletes from the Ogun contingent—Ms. Atinuke Onabiyi and Mr. Ayomide Oyegbade.
Arriving in Kano at about 9 a.m., the delegation was warmly received by the Kano State Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdusalam Gwarzo, who led other state officials to welcome their counterparts from Ogun.
Delivering Governor Abiodun’s heartfelt message, Deputy Governor Salako-Oyedele said the governor was deeply pained by the incident, noting that although he was away on Hajj, he felt it was imperative to send a team to personally deliver his condolences.
“We know that His Excellency, the Governor, is currently on pilgrimage, but he insisted we must be here in person to offer our condolences.”
“This is not just a loss for Kano State, it is a national tragedy that has touched the entire sports community. We are here to share in your grief, and to assure you that Ogun State mourns with you,” she said.
She also acknowledged the efforts of first responders and good Samaritans who rushed to the aid of the victims.
“We are grateful to the FRSC, the police, and other agencies who acted swiftly. We pray for the souls of the departed—that Allah forgives their shortcomings and grants them Aljanat Firdaus. And for the injured, we pray for full and speedy recovery,” she added.
In his response, Deputy Governor Gwarzo expressed Kano State’s appreciation for the gesture and empathy shown by Governor Abiodun and the people of Ogun.
“This visit is a powerful testament to the compassion and leadership of Governor Abiodun.”
“He had earlier called to personally condole with our Governor and the people of Kano State. This visit further reassures us of his genuine concern during this painful time,” Gwarzo remarked.
