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Update On Taraba NULGE Tragedy:
Four Dead, Others Injured in Wukari-Jalingo Highway Crash
By Henry Agbu
The night of February 11, 2025, will forever remain a dark chapter in the history of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Taraba State Chapter.
Four dedicated officials lost their lives in a fatal motor accident along the Wukari-Jalingo highway while returning from the 8th National Delegates’ Conference (NDC) of NULGE, which took place in Abuja.
The tragic incident sent shockwaves across the state and the national labor community, leaving colleagues and loved ones in deep mourning.
The Fallen Heroes
The accident claimed the lives of:
1. Late Alhaji Musa Ahmad Alkali – State Auditor, NULGE Taraba. A seasoned unionist with over two decades of service, he played a vital role in local government workers’ welfare. He had previously served as Jalingo Local Government Branch Chairman and Chairman of the Forum of Branch Chairmen. Despite an unsuccessful bid for the State President position in the past, his resilience saw him emerge as State Auditor, a role he held with distinction. Fondly called Alhaji Musa, he was known for facilitating financial aid, loans, and welfare initiatives for union members.
2. Late Yakubu Tanko – NULGE Branch Chairman, Takum Local Government. A respected leader, his contributions earned him the trust of his peers, leading to his election as Chairman of the Forum of Branch Chairmen in 2024. He played a key role in fostering unity between state leadership and local government chapters.
3. Late Hajia Hadiza Aliyu Ayuba – Branch Chairperson, Zing Local Government. A formidable woman of strength and wisdom, she was affectionately called Maman Yan Biyu. She was known for her active participation in union affairs, her calm yet firm approach to leadership, and her efforts in maintaining order during union meetings.
4. Late Mallam Aminu Sallau Ibi – A devoted and dependable driver who had been at the service of NULGE for years. He was responsible for transporting officials to crucial union engagements, including the National Week programs in Abuja in 2023 and 2024.
A Journey Cut Short
The officials had traveled to Abuja to partake in the 8th National Delegates’ Conference, a significant event that saw the election of new national executives. Before the tragedy, they had actively participated in the democratic process, which led to the emergence of Aliyu Haruna Kankara as the new NULGE National President General.
Additionally, the late Musa Ahmad Alkali served as an agent for Yakubu Tanko Burba, who successfully secured the position of National Welfare Officer. The dedication and commitment displayed by these officials in their final days serve as a testament to their unwavering service to the union.
Condolences and Tributes
The news of the tragic accident has drawn an outpouring of grief and condolences from various quarters:
Taraba State NULGE President, Baji Wakili Damuga, described the loss as devastating, noting that the deceased officials were pillars of the union whose contributions would be deeply missed.
The National Executive Council of NULGE, led by Ambali Akeem Olatunji, alongside the newly elected Aliyu Haruna Kankara, also expressed profound sorrow, acknowledging the sacrifices and service of the deceased.
The Taraba State Government extended condolences to the families of the fallen officials and recognized their impact on local government administration.
As the state mourns, arrangements are being made for the burial of the deceased, and prayers are being offered for the speedy recovery of those injured.
This heartbreaking loss is a reminder of the dedication and sacrifices made by labor leaders in their pursuit of better working conditions for their members.
May their souls rest in peace.
