Governor Inuwa Yahaya,of Gombe State has identified the journalists and media workers who lost their lives in a tragic road accident along the Billiri–Kumo Road, describing the incident as a devastating blow to the state’s media and public service community.
Those who died in the accident are Zarah Umar, Manager, News, Nigerian Television Authority, Gombe, and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor in the Office of the First Lady; Manu Haruna Kwami,Manager, Administration, NTA; Isa Lawan; Musa Tabra, a retired Manager, News; Aminu Adamu, Senior Driver; Adams Danladi of StarTimes; and Judith Kutus, an Information Officer with the Gombe State Universal Basic Education Board.
This was contained in a press statement signed by the Director-General, Press Affairs, Gombe Government House, Ismaila Misilli. The tragic accident occurred as the victims were returning from the wedding ceremony of a colleague in Kaltungo. The governor described it as “overwhelming grief, shock, and deep emotional pain,” . He said the tragedy had plunged Gombe State into mourning, stressing that the loss went far beyond the families of the deceased to affect the entire media fraternity and government institutions.
Governor Yahaya described the deceased as dedicated professionals who committed their lives to informing, educating, and serving the people of the state, noting that their deaths represent a huge loss to journalism, governance, and public service in Gombe. “This tragedy is deeply painful. We have lost colleagues, partners in progress, and devoted public servants who served with passion and a strong sense of duty. Their absence will be felt for a long time,” the governor said.
Governor Yahaya extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, the leadership and members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, the management and staff of the Nigerian Television Authority, and the entire media community within and outside Gombe State.
The governor also expressed concern for those injured in the accident and currently receiving medical treatment. They include Emmanuel Akila, NTA Government House correspondent; Steven Doddo of the NTA Marketing Department; Nina Gadal of the Ministry of Information; and Jonathan Bara, Manager, Marketing, NTA.
“Our hearts are with the injured, and we pray earnestly for their speedy and complete recovery. The Government of Gombe State is closely monitoring the situation and will ensure that all necessary assistance is provided,” he assured. He prayed that Almighty God grant eternal rest to the departed souls and give the bereaved families, colleagues, and loved ones the strength to bear the irreparable loss. He described the incident as a dark moment for the state, urging residents to remain united in prayers and solidarity during the period of grief.
