The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Imo Chapter, has been thrown into a mournful state following the death of its founding member, Mr Anthony Okoroigwe.
Secretary of the association, Mr Tunde Liadi, announced the death in a release made available to newsmen in Owerri, on Monday.
Liadi expressed the condolences of the Imo SWAN Chairman, Mr Cosmos Chukwuemeka, and the association’s members, describing the death as “a huge loss to the journalism profession in Imo”.
The Chairman described the late Okoroigwe as “ not just a colleague, but an institution within Imo SWAN “ whose commitment and selfless service helped shape the association in its formative years.
He noted that beyond the Late Okoroigwe’s professional excellence, he would be fondly remembered for his jovial nature, accessibility and willingness to mentor younger journalists.
“ He was a seasoned broadcaster who spent many years in the News and Current Affairs Department of the Imo Broadcasting Corporation (IBC), where he distinguished himself through dedication to duty and an unwavering commitment to ethical journalism.
“ He was a disciplined professional, mentor and bridge-builder whose wealth of experience and calm disposition earned him respect across generations of journalists in the state “, he said.
“ We have lost a pillar, a mentor and a true professional who believed strongly in the ideals of SWAN and journalism as a tool for societal development,” the Imo SWAN Chairman added.
Chukwuemeka extended Imo SWAN’s heartfelt condolences to the Okoroigwe family, his friends, colleagues, and the entire media community in Imo, while praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.
Our correspondent reports that Okoroigwe, aged 77, hailed from Eziama Oparanadim community in the Ahiazu Mbaise council area of Imo. He served the association diligently in various capacities, including as Treasurer and Assistant Secretary.