From:Abdulwahab Muhammad Bauchi.
Seven members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and RATTAWU have lost their lives in a tragic motor accident that occurred on Sunday, 29th December, 2025, along the Gombe–Yola Road at Ladongor Village, Billiri Local Government Area of Gombe State.
The accident involved a Hummer bus with registration number GOMBE NUJ-01, owned by the NUJ Gombe State Chapter. The vehicle was conveying eleven journalists, most of whom are staff of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Gombe, from Kaltungo when a left rear tyre reportedly burst, causing the driver, Obe Emmanuel Akila (50), to lose control. The bus subsequently somersaulted into the bush.
Police officers from Billiri Division promptly responded to the scene and evacuated the victims to Amana Clinic, Billiri, for medical attention. The driver and three other passengers—Jonathan Bara, Stephen Dodo, and Nina Gadam—sustained varying degrees of injuries and were treated before being referred to the Specialist Hospital for further care.
Medical personnel confirmed the deaths of seven passengers, identified as Jibrin Tabra, Manu Haruna Kwami, Zara Umar Adamu, Aminu Muhammad, Isah Lawal, Adam Snu, and Judith Snu.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Gombe State Council, described the incident as a devastating loss to the media community. In a condolence message signed by Chairman Faruk Muazu Gombe and Secretary Shuaibu Umar, the Union said the deceased were committed professionals who served as voices of truth and integrity.
The NUJ extended its condolences to the families of the deceased, the NTA Gombe, RATTAWU, and the entire media fraternity in the state, while praying for the speedy recovery of the injured journalists.
Meanwhile, following consultations with the families, the Janazah (funeral prayer) for the Muslim members among the deceased was scheduled for Tuesday, 30th December, 2025, at 4:00pm, at the Emir’s Palace, Gombe.
The Gombe State Police Command also commiserated with the bereaved families and advised motorists to strictly observe road safety rules and ensure the roadworthiness of vehicles to prevent similar tragedies.
The incident has thrown the media community and residents of Gombe State into deep mourning, as colleagues and well-wishers continue to pay tribute to the fallen journalists. End
