GOMBE, Nigeria — The Nigerian media community and Gombe State are in deep mourning following a horrific road accident that claimed the lives of seven members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ). The tragic incident occurred on Monday evening, December 29, 2025, on the Billiri-Kumo Road, near Kumo.
The Fatal Crash: Tire Burst Claims Lives
An NUJ bus, carrying 11 dedicated journalists, somersaulted after a sudden tire burst. The impact was devastating, resulting in the immediate death of seven individuals.
Among the deceased are six cherished members of NTA Gombe, including:
- Zarah Umar: The highly respected NTA News Manager and a key aide to the Gombe State Governor’s wife. Her loss leaves a huge void in both journalism and public service.
- Musa Tabra: A retired but still active News Manager, whose wisdom and experience were invaluable to the NTA family.
Other victims included dedicated professionals who served the public with their reporting and media skills.
Survivors Receiving Care, Nation Grieves
Four other survivors from the crash were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where they are currently receiving urgent medical care. Our thoughts are with them for a swift and full recovery.
NTA Director General, Salihu Abdulhamid Dembos, expressed profound grief, describing the loss as immeasurable and a huge blow to the entire NTA family.
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has offered the full support of the Gombe State Government to the affected families and survivors. He urged citizens to pray for the departed souls and for enhanced road safety across the nation, especially during this festive season.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by journalists in the line of duty and the critical need for improved road safety measures.
