At least seven Nigerian journalists and media professionals lost their lives on Monday in a tragic road accident along the Biliri–Kumo Road in Gombe State.
The victims were returning from the wedding ceremony of a colleague in Kaltungo when the fatal crash occurred, throwing the media community and public service in the state into deep mourning.
Governor Reacts: “A Painful Tragedy”
Reacting to the incident, Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, said he received the news with shock and a heavy heart, describing the accident as a major loss to the state.
“This loss is not only to the families of the deceased but also to the media community and the public service in our state,” the governor said.
He described the victims as committed professionals whose contributions to public information, governance, and broadcasting would not be forgotten.
“This tragedy is deeply painful. We have lost hardworking colleagues and devoted public servants whose dedication and service will be long remembered,” he added.
Victims Identified
Those who lost their lives in the crash were identified as:
Zarah Umar – Manager of News, Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Gombe, and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor in the Office of the First Lady
Manu Kwami – Manager, Administration, NTA
Isa Lawan – Journalist
Musa Tabra – Retired Manager of News, NTA
Aminu Adamu – Senior Driver
Adams Danladi – Staff of StarTimes
Judith Kutus – Information Officer, Gombe State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB)
Injured Survivors
The governor also expressed concern for those who sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment. They include:
Emmanuel Akila – NTA Government House Correspondent
Steven Doddo – NTA Marketing Department
Nina Gadal – Ministry of Information
Jonathan Bara – Manager, Marketing, NTA
Condolences Pour In
Governor Yahaya extended his condolences to:
The families of the deceased
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ)
The management and staff of the Nigerian Television Authority
The wider media community within and outside Gombe State
He prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed and a speedy recovery for those injured.
The tragic incident has renewed calls for improved road safety measures, especially for intercity travel involving public servants and media professionals.
May their souls rest in peace.
