The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, has described the late The Punch correspondent, Mr. Matthew Ochei, as “a vibrant voice when journalism was becoming lazy,” following his sudden death in the early hours of Tuesday.
Oyowe made the remark while leading members of the union on a condolence visit to Ochei’s family at his residence in Okwe Quarters, Asaba. He said the late journalist’s passion, courage and professionalism would remain evergreen in the practice of journalism in Delta State and beyond.
“Matthew Ochei was one of those journalists whose vibrance will remain evergreen in the profession,” Oyowe said. “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.”
He urged the bereaved family to draw strength from faith, noting that life and death remain within God’s will, while assuring them of the NUJ’s continued support.
“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 during the visit, the Chairman of the Asaba Correspondents’ Chapel, Comrade Ifeanyi Olannye, described Ochei’s death as a devastating personal and professional loss, noting that the deceased served as his vice chairman at the chapel.
“Matthew 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 deeply committed to his duties, stressing that no form of material support could fill the vacuum created by his passing.
“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,” he added.
Matthew Ochei reportedly died at about 2:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, after a brief illness. He was 43 years old and is survived by his wife, Mrs. Uche Matthew Ochei, and three children. His remains have been deposited at a morgue in Ukunzu, his hometown.
Responding on behalf of the family, Mrs. Faith Iyama expressed appreciation to the NUJ and members of the Asaba Correspondents’ Chapel for their visit and solidarity, appealing to the union to continue to stand by the family during the difficult period.
Ochei’s death has sent shockwaves across the Delta media landscape, where he was widely respected as a fearless, principled and energetic reporter. His passing has also renewed concerns over the welfare, health and support systems for journalists in Nigeria, many of whom operate under intense pressure and challenging conditions.
As the media community mourns, colleagues remember Matthew Ochei as more than a reporter — but as a committed professional whose voice helped keep journalism alive in trying times.
