Oyowe, Ogbagah Lead Journalists To Pay Last Respects To Late Comrade Igbi

By Henry Ubus

The Chairman of the Delta State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Churchill Oyowe, alongside members of the NUJ Ughelli Correspondents’ Chapel, led by its Chairman, Comrade Mathias Ogbagah, and other veteran journalists, on Saturday, November 7, 2026, gathered at Orerokpe, Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State, to pay their last respects to late Comrade George Onome Igbi, who was laid to rest.

Until his demise, Comrade Igbi served as the Auditor-General of the NUJ Ughelli Correspondents’ Chapel, having earlier served as the pioneer Vice Chairman of the Chapel. His contributions to the growth of journalism and the NUJ in Delta State earned him recognition among colleagues and associates.

Born in 1967 into the families of Chief Igbi Egben of Okobia, Okpe Local Government Area, and Irherhivwvie Umukoro of Okpara, Ethiope East Local Government Area, both in Delta State, the late journalist lived a life characterised by resilience, determination, intellectual curiosity and devotion to service.

His educational journey began in 1973 at Orhue Primary School, Orerokpe. He proceeded to the prestigious Baptist High School, Orerokpe, in 1980, which was subsequently renamed Orerokpe Grammar School before his graduation in 1985. He also obtained his journalism qualification from the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ), Benin City.

Despite the early loss of his father, which exposed him to the challenges of life at a young age, Igbi remained determined to pursue his dreams. He engaged in fishing and sand dredging to earn a living but never abandoned his passion for education and self-development.

His commitment to learning was so remarkable that he frequently spent time at the state library reading and expanding his knowledge, sometimes attracting complaints from his mother over his constant visits to the library.

That dedication to reading eventually distinguished him as a gifted writer and journalist. Through hard work, discipline and intellectual commitment, he rose through the ranks of journalism and served as an editor in several media organisations, including Preflector Newspaper, Okpe Mirror and Daily Independent, among others.

Beyond journalism, Comrade Igbi was deeply committed to Christian service and music ministry. He was christened into the Christ Apostolic Church in 1989, following his introduction to the Christian faith by the late Mr. Sunday Ogah.

His dedication to the work of God saw him rise to become the choirmaster of his local assembly and subsequently a District Choirmaster. He also composed and produced several Christian songs and music albums, leaving behind a legacy of spiritual inspiration through music.

Described as a sociable and multi-talented personality, Igbi successfully combined journalism, music, Christian ministry and community relationships, earning the admiration of those who encountered him.

His death has therefore created a vacuum not only within his immediate family but also among members of the journalism profession, the Christian community and the wider society.
He is survived by his wives and children.

Speaking with journalists at the burial ceremony, the eldest son of comrade George Igbi, Morrison Igbi, expressed profound appreciation to the Delta State Council of the NUJ, the Chief Press Secretary to the Delta State Governor, Chief Festus Ahon, the NUJ Ughelli Correspondents’ Chapel and others for their financial, moral and other forms of support during the period of their bereavement.

The family particularly acknowledged the solidarity and compassion demonstrated by colleagues and well-wishers, describing their support as a source of strength throughout the difficult period.

The burial ceremony brought together journalists, family members, friends, associates and well-wishers, who gathered to honour a man whose life reflected perseverance, professional commitment, love for knowledge and dedication to the service of God.

Though Comrade George Onome Igbi has departed, his contributions to journalism, the NUJ Ughelli Correspondents’ Chapel and Christian music ministry will remain part of his enduring legacy.