By Ahmed Kaigama
Fifteen journalists, including the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) correspondent, Saheed Ayinde, were injured in a road accident along the Bauchi Yelwan Duguri Road while on official assignment in Bauchi State.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the incident involved media professionals from Channels Television, The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) African Independent Television (AIT), the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA).
Members of the Correspondents’ Chapel, as well as staff of the Bauchi State Television Authority (BATV) and the Bauchi Radio Corporation (BRC) were also involved.
The journalists were travelling to cover the commissioning of projects executed by the North East Development Commission (NEDC), an event attended by the Minister of State for Regional Development and the Managing Director of the commission.
The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Gov. Bala Mohammed, Mr. Mukhtar Gidado, in a statement on Friday, described the accident as “unfortunate” but expressed gratitude that no life was lost despite the severity of the crash.
He disclosed that the injured journalists were promptly evacuated to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), Bauchi, where they are receiving comprehensive medical attention.
According to medical officials, some of the victims sustained fractures and bodily bruises but are responding positively to treatment.
Gov. Mohammed, on behalf of the government and people of Bauchi State, conveyed deep sympathy to the affected journalists, their families, colleagues, and media organisations,
He acknowledged the dedication and sacrifices journalists make in the discharge of their professional responsibilities.
The state government assured that it would closely monitor the victims’ conditions in collaboration with hospital management to ensure full recovery,
Gidado also offered prayers for their speedy healing and strength during the difficult period. (NAN)