The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council has extended its heartfelt condolences to the NUJ Gombe State Council over the loss of its seven members in a fatal auto crash.
In a Condolence Message signed by the Chairman, NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, the Union expressed profound shock and deepest sorrow over the untimely death of the seven gallant journalists in a ghastly motor accident.
The NUJ FCT Council described the dedicated professionals, who lost their lives while in the line of duty, as shining beacons of truth, courage, and commitment to the noble profession of journalism.
“We extend our most sincere condolences to their bereaved families, the NUJ Gombe State Council, and the entire NUJ family.
“Their departure leaves an irreplaceable void in our ranks, but their legacy of fearless reporting and unwavering service to humanity will endure forever. May the gentle souls of our departed colleagues find eternal peace in the bosom of the Almighty God.
“The NUJ FCT Council stands in solidarity with you during this period of unimaginable grief. We pray for God’s comfort and strength upon the families, colleagues, and all affected by this tragedy.
“Please accept the assurances of our highest esteem and fraternal solidarity,” the message read in part.
Earlier, the Former National President of the NUJ and President of the Congress of African Journalists (CAJ), Comrade Chris Isiguzo, expressed deep sorrow over the death of seven journalists.
He noted that the tragedy was even more heartbreaking because the deceased journalists were members of the Gombe State Council of the NUJ, the home council of the incumbent National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi.
He extended condolences to the National President, the national leadership of the Union, and the Gombe State Council, as well as the families and colleagues of the victims. He also prayed for the quick recovery of those who sustained injuries.
“These were dedicated journalists who travelled to honour a colleague and returned no more,” he said, adding that their death was a loss not only to their families and the Union, but to the entire journalism fraternity in Nigeria and beyond.
Isiguzo called on the NUJ family nationwide to remain united in solidarity and compassion during the period of mourning, praying that God would grant strength to the Union’s leadership and comfort to the bereaved.
“Our hearts are broken, but our collective spirit remains unbowed,” he said, while praying for the repose of the souls of the departed.
Seven journalists were confirmed dead by the Federal Road Safety Corps after a lone accident involving an NUJ bus in Gombe State as they returned from a wedding ceremony.
