Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has expressed sorrow over the twin tragedies that struck Kano and Niger states, claiming many lives.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Press Secretary, Abubakar Bawa, the governor described the death of 22 Kano athletes in a recent road accident as a “national tragedy” that has cast a dark cloud over the entire country.
The athletes, who had just competed at the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State, lost their lives while returning home on Sunday.
“Their sudden demise is both painful and deeply sorrowful. We pray Almighty Allah to forgive their shortcomings, grant them Aljannah Firdaus, and comfort their families, friends, and the good people of Kano,” the governor said.
Aliyu extended heartfelt condolences to the Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, and the entire Kano community, emphasising that Sokoto stands in solidarity with them during this moment of grief.
“This loss is not just Kano’s—it is Nigeria’s. We mourn together,” he added.
While urging families of the victims to see the incident as a divine test and to remain steadfast in faith, Aliyu called on authorities to reinforce safety protocols for travellers, particularly athletes and youth representing the nation.
In a separate message, the governor also condoled with the people and government of Niger State following the devastating floods that ravaged Makwa Local Government Area.
The disaster, triggered by heavy rainfall, claimed several lives and destroyed homes, farmlands, bridges, and other infrastructure.
Speaking from the holy land, where he is performing pilgrimage, Aliyu described the flood as “a deeply unfortunate calamity” and offered prayers for the souls of the departed.
“This is a shared tragedy. The pain felt in Makwa resonates across Sokoto and indeed the entire nation,” he said.
He acknowledged the historic bonds between Sokoto and Niger states and encouraged the victims to remain prayerful and strong in faith, despite their losses.
The governor also called for stronger disaster preparedness, improved infrastructure, and sustainable emergency response systems to forestall future tragedies.