Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed profound grief over the tragic deaths of 22 athletes from Kano State who perished in a road accident while returning from the National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta.

In a message shared on his official X handle, the 2023 Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate described the deceased athletes as "dedicated, talented and full of promise," noting that their loss represents a significant blow not only to Kano State but to the entire nation.

"I am heartbroken by news of the tragic accident that took the lives of 21 Kano state athletes returning from the National Sports Festival in Abeokuta," Atiku wrote. "These young men and women who have been cut in their prime represented the very best of our nation."

The former Vice President emphasized the urgent need for stricter safety measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future. "It is necessary to put in place and enforce safety measures to stem accidents and prevent loss of lives," he stated.

Atiku extended his condolences to the bereaved families, the Kano State government, and the Nigerian sports community, praying for the peaceful repose of the deceased athletes.

The tragic incident has prompted the Kano State government to declare Monday as a public holiday to mourn the deceased athletes, according to related reports.

President Bola Tinubu has also reportedly described the accident as devastating, joining other prominent Nigerians in expressing condolences over the unfortunate incident that has cast a shadow over the national sporting community.