By Rita Enemuru, Reporting
TUESDAY, January 6, 2026, dawned with a heavy pall over the media landscape in Delta State and across Nigeria. Journalists awoke to the heartbreaking news of the death of The Punch correspondent, Mr Matthew Ochei, who passed away in the early hours of the day after a brief illness. He was 43.
Ochei reportedly died at about 2.00 a.m., leaving behind his wife, Mrs Uche Matthew Ochei, and their three children. His remains have since been deposited at a morgue in Ukunzu, his ancestral home in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State.
The news spread swiftly, sending waves of shock and grief through newsrooms, press centres and journalists’ platforms.
To many colleagues, Matthew Ochei was more than a reporter; he was a symbol of courage, diligence and professional integrity at a time when journalism faces enormous ethical, economic and personal pressures.
Described by peers as bold, energetic and principled, Ochei earned admiration within the Delta journalism community for his unwavering commitment to the craft. His work stood out in an era often characterised by shrinking newsrooms, poor remuneration and rising risks for reporters on the field.
That sense of loss was palpable during a condolence visit by the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, to the Ochei family residence at Okwe Quarters, Asaba.
Leading the delegation, the NUJ Chairman, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, paid glowing tribute to the late journalist, describing him as “a vibrant voice when journalism was becoming lazy”.
According to Oyowe, Ochei belonged to a rare generation of journalists whose passion and energy would endure beyond their years.
“We have come to console you, but only God can truly provide comfort,” he told the bereaved family. “There are no words sufficient to ease this pain. Please take heart and allow the Lord to be your strength.”
He urged the family to draw solace from faith, noting that gratitude to God remains essential even in moments of deep sorrow, as human beings cannot fully comprehend divine purpose. Oyowe also assured them of the union’s continued support.
“Keep us informed. We will continue to do our best for the family. We pray that God will comfort you and grant you the right state of mind to bear this loss,” he said.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Asaba Correspondents’ Chapel, Comrade Ifeanyi Olannye, described Ochei’s death as both a personal and professional blow. He recalled their close working relationship, noting that the deceased served as his vice-chairman.
“Matthew was my vice-chairman. He was a titan and a reliable colleague,” Olannye said. “We prayed fervently for his recovery, but we lost him. Who are we to question God? The Creator has called him home.”
He further described Ochei as God-fearing, meticulous and deeply committed to his duties, stressing that no form of material assistance could fill the void left by his passing.
“No amount of money can replace Matthew. Find the strength within your hearts to bear this loss. I am deeply pained, but life and death are decisions made by God,” he added.
Responding on behalf of the family, Mrs Faith Iyama expressed appreciation to the NUJ leadership and members of the Asaba Correspondents’ Chapel for their visit, prayers and solidarity.
She appealed to the union and colleagues not to abandon the family in this difficult period.
Beyond the newsroom tributes, the death of Matthew Ochei also drew official reaction from the Delta State Government. Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the Punch correspondent, describing it as a painful loss to the media community and the nation.
In a condolence message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the Governor commiserated with the Ochei family, journalists across the state and the NUJ, Delta State Council. He described the late journalist as a dedicated professional who discharged his duties with courage, integrity and a strong sense of responsibility.
According to Oborevwori, Ochei’s commitment to truth, public enlightenment and ethical journalism earned him respect within and beyond the media industry.
“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 said. “His untimely passing is a heavy blow to his family, the media community and all who believe in responsible journalism.”
He extended heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased, praying that God would grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss, while assuring that the state government stands in solidarity with the NUJ and the wider media community.
In a separate statement, the NUJ, Delta State Council, said it received the news of Ochei’s death with profound shock and deep sorrow.
Signed by Comrade Churchill Oyowe, Chairman, and Comrade Josephine Omodior, Acting Secretary, the statement described his passing as a tragic development that had cast a pall of grief over the Asaba Correspondents’ Chapel and the entire council.
The union noted that the loss was a painful reminder of the fragility of life, particularly given Ochei’s warmth, dedication and contributions to the union and the profession.
“At this moment of immense grief, the NUJ stands in solidarity with the bereaved family, sharing in their sorrow and pain,” the statement read, while offering prayers for strength and comfort for the family.
Ochei’s death has once again brought to the fore lingering concerns about the welfare, health and support systems available to journalists in Nigeria, many of whom operate under intense pressure with limited institutional protection.
As friends, colleagues and the wider media community continue to mourn, Matthew Ochei is being remembered not merely as a reporter, but as a committed professional whose voice helped sustain journalism through challenging times.
From us at Stonix News, we say may his soul rest in perfect peace.
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