Minister Mourns 7 Journalists Killed In Gombe Road Crash

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has expressed shock and sorrow over the tragic death of seven journalists in a lone road accident in Gombe State.

The journalists were confirmed dead in the crash, which occurred on Monday evening in Gombe South area when they were returning from a wedding in the Gombe South Senatorial District. They were said to have travelled in solidarity with a colleague from the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) who was getting married.

In a statement issued to journalists yesterday in Abuja, preliminary information from the Gombe State Sector commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Samson Kaura, confirmed that the crash was fatal.

Reacting to the incident, the minister described the deaths as a heartbreaking loss to the media community and the nation at large, noting that the deceased were dedicated professionals who served the public with courage, integrity and commitment.

“This is a harrowing moment. Nigeria has lost dedicated voices who informed, educated and stood for truth. Their passing is a heavy blow to us all,” Idris said.

He extended his heartfelt condolences to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Gombe State Council, as well as the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased journalists.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and loved ones. May Almighty God grant them comfort and grant the souls of the departed eternal rest,” he added.

Idris assured the media community of the federal government’s support during this challenging period, while emphasising the need to strengthen safety measures for journalists and others who serve the nation daily.

“We stand in solidarity with the NUJ and the entire media community at this difficult time.
We must continue to work together to improve safety measures for those who serve the nation daily,” he said.

Idris said the federal government stands with the bereaved families and the media community in this moment of grief, praying that the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace.