A tragic bus accident in Nigeria’s Kano state has left 22 athletes dead after their vehicle plunged off a major bridge during their trip back from a national sports competition. The incident occurred when the bus driver lost control while crossing the Chiromawa Bridge on the busy Kano-Zaria motorway, as reported by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has conducted an investigation into the accident, attributing “fatigue and excessive speed” as the primary factors that led to the crash. The athletes were returning from the National Sports Festival in Ogun state, where they had been competing for their home state. With over 30 passengers on board, the bus met with tragedy on their journey home.
Footage captured after the accident reveals the extent of the devastation, with the bus severely damaged and lying beneath the bridge. The impact of the crash was evident, showcasing the force with which the bus went over the side.
Following the accident, survivors were rushed to a nearby hospital while rescue teams worked tirelessly to retrieve the bodies of those who did not survive. The sudden and tragic nature of the crash left little time for the passengers to react.
The FRSC’s investigation into the incident has highlighted the dangers of fatigue and speeding on Nigeria’s roads, compounded by poor road conditions and lax enforcement of traffic regulations. In the past year alone, the country has witnessed over 9,500 recorded accidents resulting in more than 5,400 fatalities, underscoring the urgent need for improved road safety measures.
In response to the tragedy, Kano state has declared a day of mourning, with Deputy Governor Aminu Gwarzu announcing financial assistance and food supplies for the families of the victims. The loss of these young athletes has deeply impacted the nation, with President Bola Tinubu recognizing their representation of unity, strength, and resilience.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety measures in preventing such tragedies from recurring. As the nation mourns the loss of these promising athletes, efforts must be made to address the underlying issues that contribute to road accidents and ensure the safety of all road users.
