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December 30, 2025 – Nigeria –
Seven journalists lost their lives in a fatal road accident in Gombe State on Monday evening, prompting widespread mourning from government officials, media unions, and civil society. The crash occurred along the Billiri–Kumo Road while the group was returning from a colleague’s wedding in the Gombe South senatorial district. Confirmed by the Federal Road Safety Corps, the dead include Zarah Umar, Manager of News at the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) in Gombe and a senior special assistant to the state’s first lady; Manu Haruna Kwami, NTA’s Manager of Administration; Isa Lawan; Musa Tabra, a retired news manager; Aminu Adamu, a senior driver; Adams Danladi of StarTimes; and Judith Kutus, an information officer with the Gombe State Universal Basic Education Board. Four other journalists were injured and are receiving medical care. Preliminary reports suggest a tyre burst on the vehicle may have caused the crash.
Federal and state leaders extended condolences to the bereaved families and the media community. Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the incident as a “harrowing moment,” noting that the deceased were dedicated professionals who informed and educated the public with integrity. He underscored the loss as a significant blow to the media sector and affirmed the federal government’s support for the affected families and colleagues while urging improved safety measures for journalists on the road.
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State expressed deep sorrow, describing the deaths as a tragic loss to both public service and the wider media profession. He offered prayers for the departed and assurance of support for the injured, emphasizing the journalists’ contributions to informing the public and advancing transparency in governance.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) also mourned the victims, highlighting their commitment to professional reporting and noting that their sudden loss has created an irreplaceable void in the country’s press corps. The union called for collective efforts to enhance road safety and protect media personnel who frequently travel for assignments. Its National President, Alhassan Yahya, extended sympathy to families and colleagues nationwide and reiterated the union’s solidarity in this period of grief.
The tragedy has reignited calls for stronger safety protocols for journalists, especially those who travel extensively as part of their work, and for broader efforts to address road safety challenges that have contributed to numerous fatal accidents across Nigeria.
Reference –
https://www.nairaland.com/8589720/seven-journalists-killed-gombe-auto
