The Nigerian government, through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has expressed profound shock and sorrow over the tragic death of seven journalists who died in a road accident in Gombe South, Gombe State, on Monday.

The journalists were returning from a wedding ceremony in the Gombe South Senatorial District, traveling in support of a colleague from the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) who was getting married.

Preliminary reports from the Gombe State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Samson Kaura, confirmed that the crash was fatal.

Minister Idris described the tragedy as a heartbreaking loss to the media community and the nation, highlighting the journalists’ commitment to informing the public with courage, integrity, and professionalism.

“This is a deeply saddening moment. Nigeria has lost dedicated voices who educated, informed, and stood for truth. Their passing is a significant blow to us all,” he said.

The Minister extended his condolences to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Gombe State Council, and especially to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased. He prayed for strength for those grappling with the loss.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with their loved ones. May Almighty God grant them comfort and grant the souls of the departed eternal rest,” he added.

He further emphasized the need to improve safety measures for journalists who serve the nation daily and assured that the Federal Government stands with the bereaved families and the media community during this period of mourning.