Asaba, Delta State — Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has mourned the sudden passing of Mr. Matthew Ochei, the longtime correspondent for Punch Newspapers in the state, calling it a "painful loss" to the media fraternity, Delta State, and Nigeria as a whole. Ochei, aged 43, died in the early hours of Tuesday, January 6, 2026, after a brief illness, leaving behind a wife and three children.
In a condolence message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori extended heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Delta State Council, and journalists across the state. He praised Ochei as a "dedicated professional" who carried out his duties with "courage, integrity, and a strong sense of responsibility."
"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," the governor stated. "His untimely passing is a heavy blow to his family, the media community, and all who believe in responsible journalism."
Oborevwori highlighted Ochei's contributions to ethical journalism and public enlightenment, noting that his work had earned him widespread respect. "Ochei’s commitment to truth, public enlightenment, and ethical journalism earned him respect within and beyond the media industry," the message read.
The governor prayed for divine comfort for the family and colleagues: "Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones he left behind. May Almighty God grant them comfort at this difficult time and grant the soul of the departed eternal rest." He further assured that the Delta State Government stands in full solidarity with the NUJ and the broader media community during this period of grief.
Ochei, a native of Ukunzu in Aniocha North Local Government Area, served as Vice Chairman of the Asaba Correspondents' Chapel of the NUJ until his death. His passing, confirmed by his wife Uche to journalists around 2 a.m. on January 6, has been described by colleagues as a "Black Tuesday" for journalism in Delta State.
Tributes poured in from across the media landscape. The Chairman of the Delta State NUJ Council, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, during a condolence visit to the family in Okwe Quarters, Asaba, called Ochei a "vibrant voice when journalism was becoming lazy." The Chairman of the Asaba Correspondents' Chapel, Comrade Ifeanyi Olannye, described him as a "titan and dependable colleague," expressing shock at the loss.
Other journalists echoed similar sentiments. Monday Osanyande of The Guardian labeled the day a "Black Tuesday," while Sam Erhunmwunsee of Radio Nigeria termed it a "big loss" to the chapel and NUJ. Theophilus Onojeghen, Managing Editor of Niger Delta Today, lamented, "Ochei!!! Why travel so young? Who protects your beautiful family?"
Ochei's death has reignited discussions on journalists' welfare in Nigeria, where many work under intense pressure with inadequate health and safety support. His wife, Faith Iyama (in some reports), thanked the NUJ and chapel members for their solidarity, appealing for continued support for the family.
Throughout his career, Ochei was recognized for his investigative prowess, having won the Best Investigative Journalist of the Year 2023 award from Nigeria Radar Magazine. His reporting covered critical issues in Delta State, from governance and infrastructure to security and community developments.
The remains of the late journalist have been deposited at a morgue in his hometown of Ukunzu, as arrangements for burial are underway. The media community in Asaba and beyond continues to mourn, with calls for improved support systems for practitioners highlighting the risks and sacrifices inherent in the profession.
Governor Oborevwori's condolence underscores the state's appreciation for the fourth estate's role in democracy and development. As Delta mourns one of its dedicated chroniclers, Ochei's legacy as a fearless and ethical journalist endures.
