Patrick Odey, who worked as the Akwa Ibom State correspondent for The PUNCH newspaper, has passed away.
He died on Tuesday morning after being unwell for some time.
Odey was part of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Akwa Ibom State.
Bassey Akra, the chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, confirmed the sad news to PREMIUM TIMES on Wednesday.
“Odey is no more now; he died yesterday morning,” Mr Akra said. “He had some health challenges.”
“Mr Odey was a hardworking journalist, very humble and a thoroughbred professional. He did his job with diligence, was a good mixer, peaceful, and had no issues with anybody,” the chairman added.
Daniel Etokidem, a media aide to Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, also shared the news on Facebook on Tuesday.
Mr Etokidem mentioned that he last saw Odey on August 27 at the Government House Press Centre in Uyo during a monthly press briefing.
“We greeted and exchanged pleasantries as always. Today, you are no more.
“Just like that?
“Farewell, Mr Patrick Odey,” he wrote.
Another journalist, Uwem Kerns, expressed his sorrow on Facebook.
“Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure,” Mr Kerns wrote, calling Mr Odey “a beautiful soul” who will always be remembered.
He concluded his tribute with, “Adieu, our beloved Odey!”
Odey was a well-known figure at government, public, and private events in Akwa Ibom, where he reported for The PUNCH.
His death has led to many tributes from journalists across the state.
The family has not yet shared details about the burial arrangements.
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