Delta State Mourns as Veteran PUNCH Correspondent, Matthew Ochei Passes at 43


-By Ruben Mario Brodrick 

​ASABA, NIGERIA — The Nigerian media community is in mourning following the sudden death of Mr. Matthew Ochei, the Delta State correspondent for The PUNCH Newspapers. Ochei passed away in the early hours of Tuesday, January 6, 2026, following a brief illness. He was 43 years old.

​A Sudden Loss to Journalism

​Ochei’s passing, which occurred around 2:00 a.m., has sent shockwaves through the Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ). Known for his "fearless and vibrant" reporting, Ochei was considered a pillar of the Asaba Correspondents’ Chapel and a dedicated professional who maintained high standards during a challenging era for the industry.

​He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Uche Matthew Ochei, and three children. His remains have been moved to his hometown of Ukunzu for funeral preparations.

​Tributes from the Media Fraternity

​During a condolence visit to the grieving family in Asaba, leaders of the NUJ expressed deep sorrow over the loss of a colleague they described as "irreplaceable."

  • ​Comrade Churchill Oyowe (NUJ State Chairman): "Matthew Ochei was a vibrant voice at a time when journalism was becoming lazy. His energy and commitment to the profession will remain evergreen. While words cannot diminish this pain, we pray for God’s strength for his family."
  • ​Comrade Ifeanyi Olannye (Chairman, Asaba Correspondents’ Chapel): "Matthew was my Vice Chairman and a titan in our field. He was a dependable, God-fearing colleague. No amount of material support can fill the vacuum his exit has created."

​A Call for Better Support Systems

​Ochei’s untimely death has reignited urgent conversations regarding the welfare and health of journalists in Nigeria. Colleagues noted that reporters often work under intense pressure and harsh conditions with very few safety nets or comprehensive healthcare plans.

​The NUJ has pledged its continued support to Ochei’s widow and children, with family representative Mrs. Faith Iyama urging the union to stand by them during this difficult transition.

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