Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has declared a three-day mourning period following the death of seven journalists and media workers in a fatal road accident along the Billiri–Kumo Road in Gombe State.
Recall that five staff of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and two other persons lost their lives on a lone fatal accident on Monday while returning from the wedding ceremony of one of their colleagues in Kaltungo town of Kaltungo LGA.
In a statement signed by its National Secretary, Achike Chude, the NUJ said the mourning period was approved by the National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, to honour the fallen journalists who lost their lives while returning from the wedding ceremony of a colleague in Kaltungo.
The union urged its members nationwide to continue official duties during the period in a spirit of solidarity, resilience and professional commitment, stressing that the victims’ sacrifices must not be in vain.
As for the Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, he described the incident as a devastating tragedy that has thrown the state into deep mourning, noting that the loss transcends families and institutions and strikes at the core of the media and public service ecosystem in the state.
Yahaya said the deceased were dedicated professionals whose contributions to journalism and public service left an indelible mark on the state, describing their deaths as a major blow to governance and public communication, as he extend condolences to the bereaved families, the NUJ, NTA management, and the wider media fraternity.
He also expressed concern over journalists injured in the accident, including Emmanuel Akila, Steven Doddo, Nina Gadal and Jonathan Bara, assuring them of full government support as they receive medical care.
Meanwhile, the former governor of Gombe state and Senator, Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, also expressed sorrow over the incident, describing the victims as courageous professionals who paid the ultimate price in service to society.
He called for prayers for the deceased, speedy recovery for the injured, and renewed advocacy for improved road safety measures.
While confirming the accident and the number of fatalities, the Gombe State Police Command, in a statement issued by its Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, expressed condolences to the families of the deceased, the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Gombe, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Gombe State Chapter, and all those affected by the tragedy.
The command reiterated its call on motorists to strictly observe traffic regulations and ensure the roadworthiness of their vehicles at all times.