Gombe state presents N14m support to families of seven journalists killed in road accident

The Gombe State Government has provided N14 million to the families of seven journalists who d+ed in a road accident on December 29, 2025, along the Billiri-Kumo Road. The journalists were returning from a colleague’s wedding in Kaltungo when the tragedy occurred. Each family received N2 million to support burial and related expenses.

The intervention reflects Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya’s commitment to easing the impact of the loss.

Speaking at the disbursement, Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, said an initial token had earlier been given to the families of injured victims, and the government is covering medical bills for those still receiving treatment.

He described the funds as a gesture of compassion, not compensation, and extended the Governor’s condolences to the families, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the National Television Authority (NTA), and the media community.

NUJ President Comrade Alhassan Yahaya Abdullahi commended the state government for its swift support and urged the Federal Government to implement life and health insurance schemes for journalists. NTA Gombe General Manager Abubakar Adamu conveyed appreciation from the NTA Director-General for the Governor’s generosity.

On behalf of the bereaved families, Barrister Abubakar Ahmed described the support as unprecedented in the state, noting that it would help meet both immediate and long-term needs of the dependents and expressed gratitude to Governor Yahaya.