FRSC Mourns 21 Kano Accident Victims, Cautions Drivers Against Speeding

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has pinpointed driver fatigue and excessive speed as the reasons behind the tragic road accident that claimed the lives of 21 athletes and officials from Kano State.

The victims were traveling back from the 2024 National Sports Festival in Abeokuta when the incident took place.

The accident occurred around 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 31, near Gadar Yankifi along the Kaduna-Kano expressway. The vehicle involved was a Kano State Government coaster bus, registered as KN 041 A17, carrying 24 passengers — 23 men and one woman.

In a statement issued by FRSC spokesperson Olusegun Ogungbemide, the corps confirmed that the bus veered off the road, leading to a deadly single-vehicle crash. Twenty-one passengers, all male adults, were declared dead at the scene. The three survivors, including the sole female passenger, sustained injuries and were transported to the hospital.

“The crash involved a coaster bus with registration number KN 041 A17 belonging to Kano State Government and had 24 people on board comprising of 23 male adults and 1 female adult,” the statement read. “While 3 of the victims, 2 male adults and 1 female adult were rescued to the hospital with injuries, the remaining 21 victims, all male adults, were killed as at the time of the press release.”

Among those lost were athletes from wrestling and kickboxing, journalists, sports officials, referees, a medical staff member, the public relations officer of the Kano State Sports Commission, and two drivers. One victim, Imam Umar Fagge, a football referee, was the younger brother of the acting chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission.

FRSC Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and offered condolences to the bereaved families and the Kano State Government. “The Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps, Shehu Mohammed, has expressed profound sadness and commiserated with the Kano State Government and the families of the travellers who lost their lives in a tragic lone road crash that might have occurred as a result of fatigue and excessive speed as a result of long night trip,” the statement said.

Following the tragedy, the corps marshal called on commercial and fleet operators to enforce mandatory rest periods for drivers and comply with speed regulations, particularly during nighttime journeys. “The FRSC Corps Marshal emphasised on the need for fleet operators to admonish their drivers against fatigue driving and violation of speed limits, especially as they drive in the night when visibility is extremely poor,” the statement added.

He also urged all road users to prioritize safety. “The Corps Marshal also urged all road users to prioritise safety, adhere to traffic regulations, and exercise caution while on the roads. He emphasised the importance of regular vehicle maintenance, avoiding speeding, and ensuring that drivers are well-rested.”

President Bola Tinubu described the crash as a “devastating blow to the nation,” noting that it cast a shadow over the National Sports Festival, which is intended to celebrate unity and excellence. He offered condolences to the Kano State Government and urged for immediate improvements in national transport safety standards to prevent such tragedies.

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State shared his grief, calling the incident traumatizing. “It is indeed saddening and distressing that 20 gallant athletes who had represented Kano State at the just concluded Gateway 2024 Games have lost their lives in the most traumatizing and painful circumstances,” he said. “These were young people, budding stars who had a lot to give the country with their talents, skills, and creativity.”

Kano State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mustapha Rabiu Kwankwaso, also grieved for the victims, stating that the accident profoundly impacted the state’s sporting community. “This is a deeply painful moment for all of us. We are devastated by the news of the ghastly accident that occurred as our athletes were returning home after representing our great state with pride and commitment. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and the entire sporting community in Kano,” he stated.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli