Jul 5, 2026

Tragic Road Crash Claims Lives of Ex-Bauchi Deputy Governor’s Two Children

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in news

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ABUJA, Nigeria – In a devastating blow to one of Bauchi State’s prominent political families, former Deputy Governor Senator Baba Tela has lost two of his children in a tragic motor accident.

Mustapha and Ummi Tela died on Saturday, July 4, 2026, when the vehicle they were traveling in crashed along the Bauchi-Azare road while returning from Azare, the headquarters of Katagum Local Government Area.

Reports indicate the siblings lost their lives at the scene due to the severity of the impact, with their bodies later taken to a hospital in Bauchi for confirmation.

Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State expressed profound shock and sadness upon receiving the news.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, the governor described the incident as a painful tragedy that has cast a shadow of grief over the entire state.

“The loss of these two young lives is not only a devastating blow to Senator Baba Tela and his immediate family but also a painful loss to the people of Bauchi State,” Governor Mohammed said.

He prayed for the eternal rest of Mustapha and Ummi in Aljannatul Firdaus and urged the bereaved family to find solace in the will of Allah, while assuring them of the state government’s prayers and solidarity.

The governor also extended sympathies to others who may have been affected by the accident and prayed for the speedy recovery of any injured parties. Senator Baba Tela, a seasoned politician and businessman born on December 19, 1959, in Azare, served as Deputy Governor of Bauchi State from 2019 to 2023 under Governor Bala Mohammed.

A two-time Senator representing Bauchi North Senatorial District (2003–2007), he previously chaired the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and holds roles including non-executive independent director at Zenith Bank Plc.

Known for his contributions to public service, Tela is married and a father of twelve children.

His political journey includes stints with different parties before aligning with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

This tragic incident underscores the persistent challenges of road safety in Bauchi State and Nigeria at large, where highway accidents continue to claim lives, often involving young travelers.

Just weeks earlier, multiple crashes in the state resulted in significant casualties, highlighting the urgent need for improved infrastructure, enforcement, and public awareness.

As the family mourns, tributes continue to pour in from across the political spectrum, reflecting Tela’s long-standing influence and the respect he commands in Bauchi and beyond.

May the souls of Mustapha and Ummi rest in perfect peace. Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un.