Edo NUJ Mourns ITV/Radio Correspondent Kingsley Uchegbu: "A Monumental Loss to Journalism

Edo NUJ Mourns ITV/Radio Correspondent Kingsley Uchegbu: "A Monumental Loss to Journalism

Habiba Sam 

A heavy silence has fallen over the Edo State media community as the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, mourns the sudden passing of Mr. Kingsley Uchegbu, a respected ITV/Radio staff member and Government House Correspondent.

The news struck like a thunderclap on Thursday evening, leaving colleagues and friends grappling with disbelief. In a heartfelt condolence message to the management of ITV/Radio in Benin City, the Edo State Council of the NUJ said it received the report of Uchegbu’s death with “profound shock, deep sorrow, and heavy hearts.”

To many in the press gallery and beyond, Kingsley was more than a reporter. He was the familiar, steady presence at Government House briefings, notebook in hand, always approachable and quick with a smile.

 Colleagues remember him as a dedicated professional whose passion for journalism went hand in hand with humility and warmth.

“Kingsley was not just a committed staff member of ITV/Radio,” the union said in the statement jointly signed by NUJ Edo State Council Chairman, Festus Alenkhe, and Secretary, Andy Egbon. “He was also a visible and active member of the NUJ family in Edo State, admired both within and outside the profession for his friendly disposition and unwavering commitment to duty.”

His active role in union activities had earned him respect among peers across newsrooms in the state. Whether at press conferences or union meetings, Kingsley carried himself with quiet diligence and an easy camaraderie that made him well-loved.

The union described his untimely death as a “monumental loss” to ITV/Radio, to the journalism profession, and to the NUJ family at large. “At moments like this, words are inadequate to express the grief and sadness in our hearts,” the statement read. “His absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and worked with him.”

Extending condolences to the management and staff of ITV/Radio, as well as to Uchegbu’s family, friends, and loved ones, the NUJ called the loss both painful and devastating. The union also offered prayers for the peaceful repose of his soul and asked God to grant those he left behind the strength and courage to bear the burden of grief.

For Edo’s journalism community, Kingsley’s passing leaves a gap that will not be easily filled — a reminder of the human stories behind the headlines he once reported.