The journalism community in Nigeria is currently in mourning following the tragic passing of Kani Ben, a dedicated cameraman with Channels Television. Ben lost his life due to severe spinal cord injuries sustained in a horrific road accident that occurred in Bauchi State earlier this month. The news has sent shockwaves through the industry, as reported by Reports, highlighting the risks media professionals often face in the line of duty.
The fatal crash took place on Friday, February 6, 2026, along the Yashi–Yelwan Duguri Road within the Alkaleri Local Government Area. Ben was part of a press crew consisting of thirteen journalists from various media houses who were in the state to cover the official commissioning of projects by the North East Development Commission. The incident happened shortly after the team had finished documenting the handover of a government secondary school by the Minister of State for Regional Development, Alhaji Uba Maigari Ahmadu.
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Eyewitness accounts suggest that the vehicle carrying the journalists was attempting to overtake a convoy when the driver lost control. The car veered off the road and somersaulted multiple times, with the impact being so violent that several occupants were thrown from the vehicle. Ben, who was seated in the front, bore the brunt of the collision and suffered life-threatening damage to his spine.
Following the crash, the victims were rushed to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital in Bauchi. While others suffered head injuries, deep bruises, and fractures, Ben’s condition remained critical. Despite undergoing surgery just twenty-four hours after the accident, he unfortunately succumbed to his injuries at approximately 4:00 a.m. on Sunday, February 15, while receiving care at the hospital’s Modular Theatre Complex.
Kani Ben was widely respected by his colleagues for his professionalism and commitment to storytelling. His untimely departure leaves behind a grieving wife and two young children. As the media fraternity reflects on this painful loss, many have called for better safety measures for journalists traveling on official assignments.
