FROM ONYEKACHUKWU MELUWA, WARRI
Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Delta State Council, yesterday, led members of Asaba Correspondents Chapel on a condolence visit to the family of The Punch correspondent, Mr Matthew Ochei, whose sudden death had left the media community in deep mourning.
Ochei reportedly died in the early hours of yesterday (Tuesday), after a brief illness at the age of 43.
Leading the delegation to the late journalist’s residence in Okwe Quarters, Asaba, the State NUJ Chairman, Comrade Churchill Oyowe described Ochei as “a vibrant voice when journalism is becoming lazy,” noting that his impact would remain enduring in the profession.
“Ochei was one of those journalists whose vibrance will remain evergreen in the practice of journalism.
“We came to console you, but it is only God that can truly console you. There are no words enough to reduce this pain. Please take heart and let the Lord be your strength.”
Oyowe urged the bereaved family to draw strength from faith, while assuring them that the union would continue to stand by them during the difficult period.
“Carry us along. We will not relent in doing our best for the family. We pray that God will console you and give you the right frame of mind to bear this loss,” he added.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Asaba Correspondents Chapel, Comrade Ifeanyi Olannye, described the death as a personal and professional loss, recalling Ochei as a dependable colleague and a committed journalist.
“He was my vice chairman. He was a titan and a dependable colleague. We prayed for his recovery, but we lost him. Who are we to question God? The maker has called him,” Olannye said.
He described the late journalist as God-fearing, careful and dedicated, stressing that no material support could replace the vacuum created by his passing.
“No amount of money will replace him. Find a place in your heart to bear the loss. I am deeply pained, but life and death are decisions of God,” he said.
The late Punch correspondent passed away at about 2am, leaving behind his wife, Mrs Uche Matthew Ochei, and three children. His remains have been deposited at a morgue in Ukwunzu, his hometown.
Responding on behalf of the family, Mrs Faith Iyama thanked the NUJ and members of the chapel for their solidarity and support, appealing to the union not to abandon the family in their time of need.
As colleagues and friends continue to mourn his passing, Ochei is remembered as a fearless, vibrant and principled reporter whose dedication helped keep journalism alive in challenging times.
