Seven journalists were confirmed dead in a single road crash in the Gombe South region of Gombe State on Monday. The Nigerian government, through Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris, has expressed profound shock and grief over the tragic deaths.
The journalists were coming from a wedding event in the Gombe South Senatorial District when the incident happened on Monday night. They reportedly went in support of a colleague from the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) who was getting married.
Samson Kaura, the Federal Road Safety Corps’ Gombe State Sector Commander, has provided preliminary information indicating that the collision was fatal.
The Minister noted that the journalists were dedicated voices that bravely, honorably, and professionally informed the public, characterizing the tragedy as a devastating loss to the media community and the country.
It’s a terrifying moment. Nigeria has lost committed voices that stood out for truth, informed, and educated. “We are all devastated by their passing,” he remarked.
The Minister sent his sympathies to the Gombe State Council, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), and the deceased’s friends, family, and coworkers in particular. He asked God to give them the fortitude to endure the agonizing loss.
“Our sympathies and thoughts are with their loved ones and families. “May Almighty God comfort them and grant eternal rest to the souls of the departed,” he continued.
“At this trying time, we stand in solidarity with the NUJ and the entire journalistic community. To enhance safety protocols for those who serve the country on a daily basis, we must keep cooperating,” he stated.
He gave the assurance that the media community and the grieving families had the support of the federal government at this difficult time. May the deceased rest in eternal peace.
