Bauchi journalist’s death reopens talks on insurance gaps, silent dangers facing media workers in Nigeria
Cameraman Kani Ben Dies Following Accident Amid Journalistic Duties
Bauchi, Nigeria — Kani Ben, a cameraman with Channels Television, died on February 15, 2026, after sustaining serious injuries in a vehicle accident while on assignment. Ben had recently traveled across six states in northeastern Nigeria—Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Adamawa, Taraba, and Yobe—covering government projects and community events.
The incident occurred on February 6, when Ben’s vehicle lost control on the Yashi-Yelwan Duguri Road, notorious for its pothole-riddled stretches. Following the crash, he and several colleagues were rushed to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) in Bauchi. He succumbed to his injuries nine days later.
“His dedication was evident. He had just returned from an extensive trip and immediately set out again,” said Sarah Kani Ben, his wife. “It made me realize the risks associated with journalism in this country.”
In response to the tragedy, Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, the Governor of Bauchi State, offered to cover the burial expenses and committed to assisting the education of Ben’s two children, as well as providing employment support for Sarah Kani Ben.
Legal expert Barr Sunday Joshua Wugira emphasized the responsibility of media organizations to safeguard their employees, particularly those in high-risk positions. “Comprehensive insurance covering accidents, untimely death, and permanent injuries is essential,” Wugira noted. He added that media houses must ensure their journalists do not travel in unsafe vehicles or with unqualified drivers.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) also responded to the need for increased safety measures. Alhassan Yahaya, president of the union, recalled a similar incident from December 2025 involving his colleagues. He announced plans to implement stricter guidelines regarding vehicle operators during assignments and is working on a Group Life and Health Insurance Scheme for journalists nationwide. This initiative aims to provide access to quality healthcare and death benefits for members and their families.
Yahaya affirmed, “Safety comes first. We love you more than the report. You are more important.”
Feedback from journalists across Nigeria highlights the systemic risks they face. Regina Bwala from Abuja noted that she has not received formal insurance documentation from her organization, while Daniel Atori from Niger State expressed concerns over a lack of safety assurances during assignments. “Media organizations need to partner with insurance providers to ensure we are protected,” Atori said.
According to the NUJ and Media Rights Agenda, less than 1% of journalists in Nigeria have comprehensive insurance, leaving many vulnerable to accidents and illness while on duty. Nigeria ranks as one of the most dangerous countries for journalists in West Africa, with frequent assaults and intimidation reported.
Shu’aibu Usman Liman, a former NUJ national secretary, remarked on the culture surrounding journalistic risks. “We often glorify covering dangerous situations as proof of dedication. However, dedication should not require sacrificing safety. Journalists must feel empowered to decline unsafe assignments without fear of repercussion.”
Kani Ben’s death serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for improved safety protocols and insurance coverage within the industry. The responsibility lies not only with journalists but also with media organizations to safeguard those who document Nigeria’s stories.
