Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of seven members of the Nigerian Television Authority who were killed in a road crash on Monday while returning to Gombe after attending a wedding in Kaltungo.
The governor issued a statement in Jalingo on Wednesday signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communications, Emmanuel Bello. In it, Dr Kefas described the loss as a national tragedy and conveyed his sympathies to the families of the victims and to the Nigeria Union of Journalists.
Gombe road crash prompts national condolences
According to the statement, the deceased were staff of the Nigerian Television Authority and were travelling to Gombe when the accident occurred. Governor Kefas said the journalists died in active service and that their contribution to the nation would not be forgotten. He offered prayers for the repose of their souls and comfort for bereaved families.
Dr Kefas specifically commended the work of journalists, noting their role in shaping public opinion and fostering national discussion. He reiterated his administration’s support for the Nigeria Union of Journalists and emphasised that the welfare of media workers is essential to the continued practice of press freedom.
The governor also extended condolences to the government and people of Gombe State, recognising the local impact of the tragedy. In his message, he assured colleagues and the general public that the service rendered by the deceased would remain indelible in their hearts.
The statement from the governor’s office did not outline immediate follow up measures, but the public expression of sympathy from a sitting state governor underscores the importance attached to the welfare and safety of media workers. Colleagues within the industry and officials in the affected states have begun to issue their own tributes and calls for support to the families.
Road accidents involving media crews have repeatedly drawn attention to the hazards faced by journalists on assignment and during travel for personal and professional commitments. The loss of seven media professionals in a single incident has prompted a wider conversation about safety measures and emergency response for teams on the road.
For now, Taraba State’s government has offered moral support to the union and the bereaved families, and Gombe State has been told of the governor’s sympathies. As investigations proceed and details of the crash are clarified, the media community and the public will be watching for steps to prevent a recurrence of such a devastating event.
Governor Kefas concluded his statement by paying tribute to the deceased and urging that their dedication to public information and service be remembered by colleagues and citizens alike.
Key Takeaways:
- Taraba governor Agbu Kefas extended condolences to the Nigerian Union of Journalists and the families of seven NTA staff who died in the Gombe road crash.
- The governor described the incident as a national tragedy and affirmed support for journalist welfare and press freedom.
- Authorities in Taraba and Gombe were also offered condolences as the state mourns the loss of media personnel.
