Tragedy struck Gombe State as seven journalists lost their lives in a road accident while returning from a colleague’s wedding in Kaltungo Local Government Area. The accident occurred near Kumo town in Akko Local Government Area when a tyre on the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) bus burst, causing the vehicle to lose control and veer into nearby bushes.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Gombe Sector Commander, Samson Kaura, and Government House Director General of Press and Media Affairs, Ismaila Misilli, confirmed that seven people died, while four others sustained injuries. The deceased have been taken to a morgue, and the injured are receiving medical care.
Those who died include:
- Zarah Umar, Manager, News and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor in the Office of the First Lady
- Manu Haruna Kwami, Manager, Administration, NTA
- Isa Lawan, Film Editor, NTA
- Musa Tabra, retired Manager, News
- Aminu Adamu, Senior Driver
- Adams Danladi, StarTimes
- Judith Kutus, Information Officer, Gombe State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB)
Governor Inuwa Yahaya expressed deep sorrow over the incident, describing it as “a dark moment for Gombe State.” He extended condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery, assuring that the state government would provide all necessary support.
“This tragedy is deeply painful. We have lost colleagues and devoted public servants whose absence will be felt for a long time,” the governor said.
