TRIBUTE TO FORMER SWAN SCRIBE, LATE TANKO BAUKA GANGUM OF THE TTV JALINGO.
By Abubakar Sadiq Moyoyo ( Dallatun Bantaje).
A remarkable journalist, sports writer, and social commentator, Tanko Bauka Gangum of the Taraba Television Corporation TTV Jalingo, who left an indelible mark on Taraba state and Nigeria met his Creator following a brief illness in his residence at the Shagari quarters Jalingo .
Born 56 years ago in Takum, Taraba state, Gangum’s journey in journalism began at Taraba state Television corporation (TTV) in the early 90s, where he served until his demise ,which occurred during the last week of March.
He rose through the ranks, serving as cameraman, reporter, film editor, and news editor, demonstrating his versatility and dedication.
A highly skilled journalist, Gangum covered key events, including Taraba state government activities, sports, and national and international events, earning him recognition as a trusted voice.
As one time Vice Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) TTV Chapel, he showed leadership and commitment to his profession.
He was also State Secretary of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) and currently a state Ex-officio member of the Association in Taraba state ,contributing significantly to sports journalism.
Colleagues and friends remember him as a calm, peace-loving, and detribalized Taraban, who traveled far and wide for his work.
Comrade Mathew Elud Jen, Taraba state chairman of NUJ and Mr Nuhu Gondale the chairman of SWAN both described Gangum’s passing as a great loss, praising his selfless service.
Prominent Tarabans, including HRH Alhaji Zubairu Hamman Gabdo, The paramount ruler of Gashaka, Comrade David Nyah, the Permanent Secretary of the Taraba state Broadcasting Service TSBS and Maihahkal, the chairman of Kurmi local government council paid tribute, highlighting his virtues.
His legacy inspires journalists to emulate his dedication to humanity and commitment to truth.
Gangum’s work ethic and professionalism set a benchmark for aspiring journalists in Taraba state and beyond.
His contributions to TTV and journalism in Taraba state will be remembered and cherished.
As a sports writer, he brought excitement and insight to sports coverage in the state in view of his exceptional style of reportage.
Gangum’s community involvement and people skills earned him respect across Taraba state.
He was a bridge-builder, using his platform to promote understanding and unity.
His transition leaves a void in the media landscape, but his legacy lives on.
Journalists and friends recall his guidance, support, and mentorship.
Gangum’s family, colleagues, and friends mourn his loss, but celebrate his life and achievements.
His story is a testament to the power of hard work and dedication and that’s why the immediate past chairman of the Taraba state chapter of SWAN Alh. Sani Sulaiman recalled with nostalgia the lessons of hard work and dedication, he learned from the deceased colleague and prayed God to accord his family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
Sometimes in 2011 when I was the chairman SWAN Taraba state, while late Bauka Gangum was the state secretary, I enjoyed perfect and cordial working relationship with him.
He is an epitome of humility and respect who carries out his duties with passion and love.
Tanko Bauka Gangum who was committed to mother earth on Thursday the 22nd day of April 2026 in his home town Takum after all the Christian rites left behind his brothers, sisters friends and colleagues to mourn him.
Though death is inevitable as we keep saying ,but each time it visits, it leaves behind a terrible mark.
May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
As we bid farewell, we remember Tanko Bauka Gangum’s impact and the difference he made.
ADIEU — GOOD NIGHT BAUKA MY FRIEND
The Dallatun Bantaje,
Alh Abubakar Sadiq Moyoyo is a one-time Deputy National president of SWAN and currently a member of the Taraba state Sports Development commission Jalingo.
