Former President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed profound grief following two tragic incidents in Nigeria that claimed more than 170 lives across Niger and Kano States.
The disasters, a catastrophic flood in Niger State and a deadly auto crash in Kano State, occurred within days of each other, triggering widespread mourning and renewed calls for improved infrastructure and disaster preparedness.
In a condolence message issued through his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, Buhari lamented the devastating impact of the tragedies and offered heartfelt sympathies to the victims’ families, the affected state governments, and communities.
“I am deeply pained by the loss of lives due to the floods in Niger State and the road accident in Kano State. The deaths are painful and devastating,” Buhari said.
“Condolences to the families and friends of all those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon.”
Last week, Niger State was hit by severe flooding that submerged entire communities, destroyed farmlands and homes, and caused widespread displacement.
At least 150 people lost their lives in the disaster, with emergency responders working around the clock to provide aid and shelter to thousands of displaced residents.
Even as relief efforts continued in Niger, another tragedy struck in Kano State.
A horrific road accident claimed the lives of 22 individuals, including young athletes, coaches, and sports officials.
The victims were returning from a national sports festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State, when their vehicle crashed, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries.
The twin tragedies have drawn condolences and solidarity messages from across Nigeria and beyond.
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Prominent Nigerians, civil society groups, and international observers have expressed sorrow, while calling on the government to improve road safety standards and invest more in climate resilience.
Buhari, who served as Nigeria’s president from 2015 to 2023, described the succession of deadly events as shocking and heartbreaking.
“The swift succession of such tragic events has left me shocked and devastated, as it has many people in different parts of the world,” he added.
Federal and state governments are currently coordinating emergency responses in both Niger and Kano States.
Relief materials, temporary shelters, and medical assistance are being deployed to alleviate suffering and prevent further casualties.
Humanitarian agencies have also been mobilized to assist in the recovery efforts, even as climate experts and public policy analysts urge proactive measures to mitigate the risk of future disasters.
