NUJ, Maritime Industry Mourns Ray Ugochukwu

BY EGUONO ODJEGBA

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Lagos Congress, media practitioners, maritime reporters and industry stakeholders have expressed shock at the death of veteran maritime journalist, Ray Ugochukwu.

A brief statement signed by Leye Ajayi and Tunde Olalere, NUJ Chairman and Secretary, respectively, said Ugochukwu passed away earlier today, and described his passage as a big shock. The NUJ described the late Ugochukwu as a jolly good fellow who contributed immensely to the development of journalism and practitioners, alike.

The statement reads: “With heavy hearts, we mourn the death of a media giant, a versatile Unionist and a brilliant journalist, Mr Ray Ugochukwu who passed on Thursday. The death of Ray came as a big shock to the union. We are going to miss his courageous attributes and mentorship.

“He was also one of the pillars of the Lagos Council of NUJ and served the union meritoriously in his capacities as the Chairman, Seminar Committee; and as a Member, Committee on Milestone Recognition of Media Icons in Nigeria.

“He spent most of his lifetime in ensuring the advancement of Maritime Reporting as well as welfare of Journalists. He worked in several media houses.

“Among his giant strides, he was a former President of the Maritime Reporters’ Association of Nigeria (MARAN); President, Maritime Journalists Association of Nigeria (MAJAN); and a former Chairman of the Daily Times Chapel of NUJ. The legacies of Ray are indelible and will exist forever. May God grant his soul eternal rest.”

Many maritime industry stakeholders and colleagues who also lamented his sudden passage said he will be greatly missed and expressed their heartfelt condolences. Senior colleagues including Elder Asu Beks, Emeka Okoroanyanwu, Chief Timothy Okorocha, Dr. Ovie Edomi, Mazi Tony Ohakwe, David Ogah, Dele Aderibigbe, Enyeribe Anyanwu, Shola Fadeyi said they are deeply saddened by Ugochukwu’s sudden passage, and prayed for the repose of his soul.

Although the cause of his death could not be immediately ascertained as at the time of going to press, from the account of those who interacted with him as late as yesterday, he sounded hale and hearty. Ray Ugochukwu is survived by wife and children.