The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has expressed “profound shock and deepest sorrow” following the tragic death of seven journalists from the Gombe State Council who were killed in a fatal motor accident.
The deceased journalists, according to the union, were returning from a wedding when the crash occurred.
Their names had not been officially released at press time, but NUJ officials described them as “gallant professionals who died in the line of duty.”
In a condolence message on Tuesday, the Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, said the union was devastated by the news, adding that the incident has created an irreplaceable void in the media community.
“The NUJ FCT Council received with profound shock and deepest sorrow the heartbreaking news of the untimely death of six gallant journalists in a ghastly motor accident,” Ike said.
“These dedicated professionals, who lost their lives while in the line of duty, were shining beacons of truth, courage, and commitment to the noble profession of journalism.”
While commiserating with their families and colleagues in Gombe State, the FCT Council said it stands in solidarity with the NUJ Gombe Council and prayed for the strength to bear the loss.
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“Their departure leaves an irreplaceable void in our ranks, but their legacy of fearless reporting and unwavering service to humanity will endure forever,” the statement added.
“May the gentle souls of our departed colleagues find eternal peace in the bosom of the Almighty God.”
The union also described the tragedy as a major blow to the journalism profession, especially at a time when the country is grappling with insecurity, economic hardship, and shrinking press freedom.
The NUJ called on relevant authorities to improve safety measures for journalists on official assignments and ensure better protection for media workers across Nigeria.
