By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, on Saturday led tributes for the late Delta State correspondent of The PUNCH, Matthew Ochei, as he was laid to rest in his hometown of Ukwu-Uzu, Aniocha Local Government Area of the state.
Chairman of the NUJ in the state, Churchill Oyowe, while commiserating with the bereaved family, prayed that God would grant them the fortitude to bear the loss of the journalist, who died at the age of 43.
Oyowe also appreciated members of the journalism community in Delta State and the Delta State Government for the support and solidarity shown before, during and after the burial.
“I sincerely appreciate the journalism community in Delta State and the Delta State Government for their overwhelming support before, during, and after his burial, a solidarity that truly honoured his memory and service,” he said.
Ochei, who was based in Asaba until his death, passed away in the early hours of Tuesday, January 6, 2026, after a brief illness. He was buried following a funeral service held at Bethel Anglican Church, Ukwu-Uzu.
PUNCH Describes Death as Big Blow
In a tribute delivered on his behalf, the Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of Punch Newspapers, Joseph Adeyeye, described Ochei’s passing as a major loss to the organisation.
“Everyone in The PUNCH Place was deeply pained by the sudden passing of our dear brother, Mr Matthew Ochei. It was a big blow,” he stated.
Adeyeye, who was represented at the burial by a three-man delegation comprising Mr Dele Ogunyemi, Mr Ikenna Obianeri and Mr Felix Sylvester Ijenebe, said the late journalist was a committed, loyal and highly valued member of the organisation.
“Mr Ochei was renowned for his dedication to duty. Much more so, he was a good team player. Also, he had a very friendly personality. His presence was always magnetic. We will sorely miss him,” the tribute read.
Church Recalls His Service
At the funeral service, the Vicar of Bethel Anglican Church, Ukwu-Uzu, Emmanuel Ottah, described the deceased as a committed church worker who was consistent in his service to God.
He said church records showed that Ochei was actively involved in evangelism and developmental activities, adding that his sudden death had created a vacuum in the church.
“As a member of the Church Committee, Matthew Ochei’s sudden departure has left a big vacuum in the church,” the cleric said.
Quoting from 1 Thessalonians 4:13, Rev. Ottah noted that only God Almighty understands the reasons for calling Ochei home at what he described as a tender age.
The late Matthew Ochei is remembered as a dedicated journalist, faithful church member and respected colleague whose contributions to journalism in Delta State will not be forgotten.