In a compassionate response to a devastating tragedy, the Gombe State Government has extended significant financial support to the families of media professionals who lost their lives in a fatal road crash.
Governor's Swift Intervention Following Tragic Accident
Governor Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya approved the donation of N14 million to the bereaved families of seven journalists and media workers. The fatal accident occurred on December 29, 2025, along the Billiri-Kumo Road. The victims were returning from a colleague's wedding ceremony in the Kaltungo Local Government Area of the state.
The financial support, amounting to N2 million for each family, was presented on Friday by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi. He acted on behalf of the governor, emphasizing that the gesture was aimed at cushioning the severe impact of the loss.
Government Assumes Full Responsibility for Medical Care
Professor Njodi revealed that the state government's support was not limited to the families of the deceased. He stated that an initial token had been provided to the families of injured victims immediately after the incident. Furthermore, Governor Yahaya has taken full responsibility for the medical treatment and hospital bills of all survivors currently receiving care.
"Our hearts have been restless since this tragic incident," Njodi said. "While we cannot bring back the departed or fully compensate for the loss, His Excellency has approved this support. The government has taken full responsibility for the medical bills of those who survived." He stressed that the funds were a gesture of compassion, not compensation, intended to support the families during an immensely difficult period.
NUJ, Families Express Profound Gratitude
The National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Alhassan Yahaya Abdullahi, expressed deep appreciation for the state government's swift and unprecedented intervention. He noted that NUJ members nationwide were grateful for the support extended to both the families of the deceased and the journalists undergoing treatment.
Abdullahi used the opportunity to call on the Federal Government to fast-track the implementation of life and health insurance schemes for journalists, urging state governments, including Gombe, to adopt such policies once available.
Speaking on behalf of the bereaved families, Barrister Abubakar Ahmed praised Governor Inuwa Yahaya, describing the intervention as the first of its kind in the state's history. "This support of N2 million to each family will go a long way in addressing both the immediate and long-term needs of the dependants. We truly lack words to express our gratitude," he said.
Professor Njodi also conveyed the governor's heartfelt condolences to the families, the NUJ, the management of the National Television Authority (NTA), and the entire media community in Gombe State, urging them to find solace in faith.
