The Society of Digital Newspaper Owners of Nigeria (SDNON) has called on relevant authorities to take stronger measures to prevent avoidable loss of lives, particularly among professionals traveling in the line of duty.
The Society made the call on Thursday while expressing shock over the death of seven journalists and media professionals who lost their lives in a road accident along the Biliri–Kumo road in Gombe State.
In a statement signed by its President, Dr. Adeniyi Ifetayo, and dated January 1, 2026, the society described the incident as a devastating loss to the Nigerian media industry and the nation at large.
According to SDNON, the deceased were committed professionals whose work in public enlightenment and service would be remembered.
The organization commiserated with the Gombe State Government and its people, the Nigeria Union of Journalists ,NUJ, as well as the management and staff of the Nigerian Television Authority ,NTA, StarTimes, the Gombe State Universal Basic Education Board, and the wider media community.
SDNON was observed to have also expressed sympathy for those injured in the accident and wished them a speedy and full recovery.
Calling for improved road safety across the country, SDNON also extended its condolences to the families of two persons who died in a separate road accident involving British-Nigerian boxer Anthony Joshua on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.
The society prayed for comfort and strength for the bereaved families and wished Joshua a quick recovery from his injuries.
The statement emphasized the need for collective efforts to enhance road safety nationwide and prevent similar tragedies in the future.