Channels Television Cameraman Kani Ben Succumbs to Injuries After Tragic Bauchi Road Accident
The media community in Nigeria is in mourning following the death of Channels Television cameraman Kani Ben, who passed away in Bauchi State nine days after sustaining severe injuries in a devastating road accident. The incident occurred while he was on assignment covering the inauguration of projects by the North East Development Commission.
Details of the Fatal Crash and Aftermath
On February 7, a bus carrying journalists somersaulted multiple times along the Yashi–Yelwan Duguri Road in Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State. The convoy was traveling to inaugurate the Bara Bridge between Bauchi and Gombe States shortly after the commissioning of a Government Secondary School project in Yelwan Duguri, which was handed over to the Bauchi State Government by a delegation led by the Minister of State for Regional Development, Alhaji Uba Maigari Ahmadu, and Bauchi State Deputy Governor Auwal Jatau.
According to reports, Ben was receiving treatment at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital before his passing in the early hours of Sunday. Several other journalists were injured in the crash, including representatives from African Independent Television, Nigerian Television Authority, News Agency of Nigeria, and The Nation, but Ben remains the only fatality recorded from the accident.
Tributes and Condolences from Media and Government
The Bauchi State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists described the incident as shocking and extended heartfelt condolences to Ben's family, colleagues, and associates. In a mark of respect, the council suspended its planned congress meeting.
Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed expressed deep sorrow through his media aide, noting that despite extensive medical efforts, Ben could not survive his injuries. The governor praised Ben's dedication and courage in his work as a cameraman and offered prayers for his eternal rest.
Personal Background and Community Impact
Kani Ben hailed from Adamawa State and is survived by his wife and two children. His colleagues had remained hopeful for his recovery after he underwent surgery and received intensive care, but his passing has left a profound void in the media community. The injured journalists were initially rushed to Yelwan Duguri Hospital for emergency treatment before being transferred to ATBU Teaching Hospital and Bauchi Specialist Hospital for further care.
The loss of Kani Ben has been widely described as painful and heartbreaking, marking a sad moment for journalism not only in Bauchi but across Nigeria. His commitment to his profession and bravery in the field are remembered as inspirations to many in the industry.
