The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has been thrown into mourning following the death of seven journalists in a fatal road accident that occurred on Monday in Gombe State.
The journalists lost their lives while returning from the wedding ceremony of a colleague in Kaltungo Local Government Area. Reports indicate that the accident was caused by a tyre burst on the bus conveying them, leading to the tragic loss of lives.
The Gombe State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Samson Kaura, alongside the Director-General of Government House Press and Media Affairs, Ismaili Misili, confirmed that seven journalists died in the crash, while four others sustained varying degrees of injuries.
Reacting to the incident, NUJ National President, Alhassan Yahya, described the development as a painful and devastating blow to the journalism profession, not only in Gombe State but across the country.
“They were committed practitioners who served the public with courage, integrity, and professionalism. Their loss has left an irreplaceable void in our noble profession,” Yahya said.
He expressed the union’s solidarity with the families of the deceased journalists and members of the media community in Gombe State, assuring them of the NUJ’s support during the period of grief.
“We pray that Almighty God grants eternal rest to the souls of the departed and gives their loved ones the fortitude to bear this painful loss,” he added.
“On behalf of the National Executive Council (NEC), the entire NUJ family nationwide, and the Nigerian media community, the Union extends its heartfelt condolences to the Gombe State Council of the NUJ, the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased.”
Yahya also noted that the tragic incident serves as a reminder of the pressing need to strengthen road safety measures and encourage responsible driving, particularly for journalists and other professionals who frequently travel in the course of their duties.
What you should know
Journalists in Nigeria often travel long distances to cover assignments, social events, and official engagements, exposing them to significant road safety risks.
Road crashes linked to tyre bursts, speeding, and poor vehicle maintenance remain a leading cause of death nationwide. The loss of seven journalists in a single incident underscores the dangers faced by media professionals beyond the newsroom.
The NUJ has repeatedly called for improved road safety standards, better enforcement of traffic regulations, and increased awareness to protect journalists and other road users from preventable tragedies.
