The Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, FNIPR, has expressed profound shock and sorrow over the deaths of seven journalists in a tragic road accident in Gombe South, Gombe State, on Monday.

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

According to preliminary reports from Samson Kaura, the Gombe State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, the crash was fatal.

Describing the incident as a heartbreaking loss, Minister Idris highlighted the journalists’ dedication and professionalism, noting that they were committed voices who informed the public with courage and integrity. “This is a harrowing moment. Nigeria has lost dedicated voices who informed, educated, and stood for truth. Their passing is a heavy blow to us all,” he said.

The Minister extended his condolences to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Gombe State Council, and, in particular, the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased. He prayed for strength for the bereaved and comfort for their loved ones, asking God to grant the souls of the departed eternal rest.

Minister Idris also urged stakeholders to work together to improve safety measures for journalists, saying, “We stand in solidarity with the NUJ and the entire media community at this difficult time.”

He reassured that the Federal Government remains committed to supporting the bereaved families and the media community during this period of grief.