The North East Development Commission (NEDC) has paid a condolence visit to the family of Bauchi State Television Authority (BATV) cameraman Kabiru Ahmed Ilaleh, who died from injuries sustained in a road accident while on official assignment in Bauchi State.
A delegation from the commission visited the residence of the deceased yesterday to sympathise with the family over the tragic loss.
Recall that Kabiru Ahmed Ilaleh, 56, a cameraman with Bauchi State Television Authority (BATV), died on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at the New Surgical Complex of the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), Bauchi, where he had been receiving treatment for three weeks following injuries sustained in the crash.
His death follows that of Kani Ben, who died on February 15 this year from injuries suffered in the same accident, which occurred along the Yashi–Yelwan Duguri Road in Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State on Friday, February 6, while journalists were covering the inauguration of projects by the North East Development Commission (NEDC).
Thirteen journalists from different media organisations were involved in the incident.
Speaking during the visit, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NEDC, Mohammed G. Alkali, described the death of the cameraman as a painful loss, noting that he died in the line of duty.
Represented by Naomi Abwaku of the Commission’s Corporate Services Department, Alkali said the commission recognised the dedication and sacrifices of journalists who often risk their lives while carrying out their professional responsibilities.
“On behalf of the Governing Board, Management and staff of the Commission, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Kabiru Ilaleh, the Bauchi State Television Authority, the Bauchi State Government, the Nigeria Union of Journalists and the entire media community,” Abwaku said.
She added that the commission closely monitored the treatment of journalists involved in the accident until they were discharged from the hospital, describing the loss of two media professionals as deeply saddening.
Also speaking, the Bauchi State Coordinator of the NEDC, Aliyu Isiyaku, said the commission sent a delegation to commiserate with the bereaved family.
He described the late Kabiru as a dedicated professional who served the state with commitment, adding that his sacrifice in the line of duty would not be forgotten.
Isiyaku also disclosed that the commission provided financial support and food items to assist the family during the difficult period.
He prayed for the repose of the soul of the late journalist, asking Allah to grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus.
Responding on behalf of the family, the elder brother of the deceased, Salisu Abubakar Sadiq, thanked the NEDC Managing Director and her team for their support and compassion.
He expressed appreciation for the concern shown by the commission during Kabiru’s treatment and after his death, describing the gesture as a demonstration of genuine care.
The late cameraman is survived by his mother, two wives, seven children and other relatives.
