By Ayomide Otitoju
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) is mourning the deaths of seven journalists who died in a road accident in Gombe State on Monday.
The crash, reportedly caused by a tyre burst on the bus, occurred as the journalists were returning from a colleague’s wedding in Kaltungo Local Government Area. Four others sustained injuries of varying severity. The fatalities were confirmed by Samson Kaura, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Gombe Sector Commander, and Ismaili Misili, Director-General of Government House Press and Media Affairs.
In a statement, NUJ National President Alhassan Yahya described the loss as a devastating blow to the journalism community in Gombe and across Nigeria. “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 extended the union’s condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased, and prayed for strength for the bereaved. “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.
Yahya also called for improved road safety measures and responsible driving to prevent similar tragedies, particularly for professionals who frequently travel in the line of duty.
