Delta journalists mourn loss of Matthew Ochei
The Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Matthew Ochei, a correspondent for Punch Newspaper. Ochei died in the early hours of Tuesday, January 6, 2026, after a brief illness, at the age of 43. Colleagues and members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) described his death as a significant loss to the media community. Tributes have poured in, highlighting his dedication, professionalism, and impact on journalism in Delta State.
What we know
- Matthew Ochei died at about 2am on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, after a brief illness.
- Sheriff Oborevwori described Ochei’s passing as a painful loss to the media and the nation.
- Ochei was the Vice Chairman of the Asaba Correspondents Chapel of the NUJ and was respected for his commitment to ethical journalism.
- Journalists in Delta State referred to the day as ‘Black Tuesday’ following the news of his death.
- Ochei is survived by his wife, Uche Matthew Ochei, and three children, with the funeral programme to be announced by the family.
