By Rasheed Lateef
The Edo State Government has pledged support for the family of late Independent Television and Radio (ITV) correspondent, Kingsley Uchegbu, following his death, which has continued to draw reactions from the media community in Edo State.
The assurance was given during a condolence visit by top government officials to the residence of the late journalist in Benin City, where the state government sympathised with members of the bereaved family over the loss.
Representing Governor Monday Okpebholo during the visit, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon Gani Audu, described Uchegbu as a dedicated media professional whose years of reportage contributed significantly to government communication and public information dissemination in the state.
Government officials noted that the late journalist was widely known within Government House press circles for his consistency in covering state activities and public affairs.
The state government assured the family that it would not abandon the wife and children left behind by the deceased journalist, acknowledging his service and commitment to journalism in Edo State.
The death of Uchegbu was earlier confirmed by the Nigeria Union of Journalists, which described his passing as a major loss to the journalism profession and the Edo media community.
In a statement jointly signed by NUJ Edo State Council Chairman, Dr. Festus Alenkhe, and Secretary, Andy Egbon, the union said the late ITV correspondent was respected for his professionalism, active participation in union activities and commitment to duty.
Colleagues and associates within the media industry have continued to mourn the late journalist, recalling his role as a familiar face at government briefings and official assignments in Edo State.
Before his death, Uchegbu served as a Government House Correspondent for Independent Television and Radio (ITV) and was involved in the coverage of major government and political events in the state. Some of his recent reports focused on infrastructure inspections, health interventions and official state engagements.
His death comes around growing concerns over pressures faced by journalists and media practitioners in Nigeria, particularly those covering politics, governance and public affairs.
The Edo State Government said it would continue to identify with the family during the mourning period while praying for the repose of the deceased journalist’s soul.
