Delta Media Community Mourns as PUNCH Correspondent Matthew Ochei Dies at 43
Journalists and public figures in Delta State have expressed deep sorrow following the sudden death of Matthew Ochei, a senior correspondent for The PUNCH Newspaper, who passed away early Tuesday after a brief illness. He was 43 years old.
Ochei, who hailed from Ukunzu in Aniocha North Local Government Area, died at about 2:00 a.m. on January 6, 2026, his wife, Uche Ochei, confirmed to family and colleagues. His death sent shockwaves through the media community, with many describing the day as a “Black Tuesday” for journalists in the region.
As the Asaba-based state correspondent and Vice Chairman of the Asaba Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ochei was well respected for his professional commitment and ethical reporting.
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori led tributes, commiserating with the Ochei family, the NUJ, and the wider media community. In a condolence message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor praised Ochei’s dedication to truth, public enlightenment, and responsible journalism. Oborevwori described his passing as a heavy blow to both the state and the nation’s media fraternity.
Colleagues also paid heartfelt tributes. Monday Osanyande of The Guardian reflected on the shock felt by journalists across Delta, while Sam Erhunmwunsee of Radio Nigeria highlighted the loss to both the Asaba Correspondents’ Chapel and the NUJ. “It is a big loss,” he said, praying for strength and comfort for the bereaved family.
Theophilus Onojeghen, Managing Editor of Niger Delta Today, mourned Ochei’s untimely departure, questioning why someone so young had to leave so soon. Meanwhile, Churchill Oyowe, Chairman of NUJ’s Delta State Council, praised Ochei as a “vibrant voice” whose passion for journalism set a high standard in a time when many in the profession were becoming complacent.
At Ochei’s residence in Okwe Quarters, Asaba, union leaders and colleagues gathered to console his family. Ifeanyi Olannye, Chairman of the Asaba Correspondents’ Chapel, spoke of the profound impact Ochei had on his peers, saying, “He was a titan, a dependable colleague.”
Responding on behalf of the family, Mrs. Faith Iyama expressed gratitude for the support shown and appealed to the union and press community to continue standing with them during this difficult period.
Funeral arrangements for Mr. Matthew Ochei are expected to be announced by his family in the coming days. He is survived by his wife, Uche, and three children.