The management of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) Gombe has expressed sorrow over the death of its staff who were members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), NTA chapel, following a fatal road accident.
Those who died in the incident include Zarah Umar, manager news and senior special assistant to the governor in the office of the first lady; Manu Haruna Kwami, manager administration; Isa Lawan; Musa Tabra, a retired manager news; Aminu Adamu, senior driver; Adams Danladi of StarTimes; and Judith Kutus, information officer with the Gombe State Universal Basic Education Board.
In a statement made available to journalists in Gombe, the station said it received the news with total submission to the will of Allah.
“With total submission to the will of Almighty Allah, we regretfully announce the tragic passing of members of staff of NUJ/NTA Gombe, following the unfortunate incident earlier reported,” the statement read.
“May Almighty Allah forgive their shortcomings, grant them Aljannatul Firdaus, and comfort their families, colleagues, and loved ones in this moment of great loss,” it added.
The station said survivors currently receiving medical attention include Emmanuel Akila, Steven Doddo, Nina and Jonathan Bara.
Meanwhile, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe state, said he received the news of the accident with shock, grief and deep emotional pain.
The governor said the accident occurred along the Billiri-Kumo road while the victims were returning from the wedding ceremony of a colleague in Kaltungo.
Inuwa Yahaya described the incident as a heart-rending tragedy that has plunged the state into mourning.
He said the loss goes beyond families and institutions to the core of Gombe’s media and public service community.
The governor said the deceased were dedicated professionals whose deaths represent a devastating blow to journalism, public service and governance in the state.
“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,” he added.
Governor Yahaya extended condolences to the families of the deceased, the NUJ, the management and staff of the NTA, and the wider media fraternity.
His words: “Our hearts are with the injured, and we pray earnestly for their speedy and complete recovery. The government of Gombe state is following the situation closely and will ensure that all necessary assistance is provided.
“This is a dark moment for Gombe state. We mourn together, we grieve together, and we pray that Almighty God protects us all from such tragic occurrences.”