DELTA State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed sorrow over the death of The Punch newspaper Correspondent in Asaba, Matthew Ochei, describing his death as a painful loss to the media and Nigeria at large.
Ochei, a native of Ukunzu in Aniocha North Local Council, died in the early hours of Tuesday, January 6, 2026, after a brief illness, at the age of 43.
Oborevwori, in a condolence message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, commiserated with the Ochei family, journalists across the state and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, decribing Ochei as a dedicated professional who discharged his duties with courage, integrity and a sense of responsibility.
He stated that Ochei’s commitment to truth, public enlightenment and ethical journalism earned him respect within and beyond the media industry, adding: “This is indeed a critical and painful moment.
“Delta State has lost a committed and fearless voice who informed and educated the public with professionalism and integrity.
“His untimely passing is a heavy blow to his family, the media community and all who believe in responsible journalism.”
The governor extended his heartfelt condolences to Ochei’s family, friends and colleagues, praying to God to grant them comfort at this difficult time and soul of the departed eternal rest.
He assured that the state government stands in solidarity with the NUJ and the entire media community during this moment of grief.
On its part, the state Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), said Ochei’s death has cast a heavy pall over the Asaba Correspondents Chapel and the Council, leaving colleagues, friends and associates grappling with a deep sense of loss.
The Council, in a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Churchill Oyowe, and acting Secretary, Josephine Omodior, stated that the deceased was known for his warmth, dedication and meaningful contributions to the union’s growth and activities.
According to the statement, Ochei’s death is a painful reminder of the fragility of life and has left many who worked with him in anguish, given his commitment to journalism and his cordial relationship with colleagues.
The NUJ recalled that he was not only a dependable professional, but also a union man whose presence and contributions would be sorely missed within the Chapel and Council.
It expressed solidarity with the bereaved family, assuring of its support during this difficult period, noting: “We pray that God, in His infinite mercy, grants the family the strength, comfort and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”
The NUJ prayed for the peaceful repose of Ochei’s soul, hoping that his legacy and memories would remain a source of strength and consolation to all who knew him.
Leading a condolence visit to the family’s residence in Okwe area of Asaba, Oyowe described the late journalist as “a vibrant voice when journalism was becoming lazy.
“Ochei was one of those journalists whose vibrance will remain evergreen in the practice of the profession.
“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 family to find solace in faith, assuring them of the union’s continued support, saying: “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.”
Also speaking, Chairman of the Chapel, Ifeanyi Olannye, described Ochei’s death as a painful personal and professional loss, noting: “Matthew was my vice chairman. He was a titan, a dependable colleague.
“We prayed for his recovery, but we lost him. Who are we to question God? The Maker has called him.”
Olannye described Ochei as God-fearing, careful and committed, and no material support could replace the vacuum left by his death, adding: “No amount of money will replace Matthew. Find a place in your heart to bear the loss. I am deeply pained, but life and death are decisions of God.”
Responding on behalf of the family, Mrs. Faith Iyama expressed gratitude to the NUJ and the Chapel for the visit and show of solidarity, urging them not to abandon the family in its time of need.
Ochei died about 2am on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, after a brief illness, leaving behind his wife, Uche, and three children.
His remains have since been deposited at a morgue in his hometown, Ukunzu, Delta State.
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