By Dada Ahmed.
Late Mr.Msthias Omale.
From an existential perspective, the death of a colleague or friend prompts the living to confront their own mortality by acknowledging that life is finite. Such a tragic circumstance compels reflection on purpose, legacy, and how we choose to live.
Philosophers assert that death encourages us to consider the impact the deceased made on society and the importance of cherishing meaningful experiences. They argue that the loss of a loved one should inspire the living to reevaluate what it means to live authentically.
Moreover, the passing of a neighbor serves as a reminder of life’s impermanence, fostering a deeper appreciation for the present and acknowledging that our relationships and experiences possess intrinsic value.
Death is often described as the most unwelcome yet inevitable visitor, arriving at the appointed time determined by Almighty God.
This feared phenomenon, the necessary end of any mortal, leaves the bereaved with stories of sorrow in its wake. This is stark reality that faces the family of a dear colleague and brother—a man of admirable character and a true journalist, who used his noble profession to positively impact society.
It is within this philosophical framework that the death of Comrade Mathias Omale,veteran journalist in Kogi State, falls squarely.
Kogi journalists and their colleagues beyond the state are grieving the loss of this amiable, loved, and God-fearing colleague, Omale,who died on Monday, September 16,2024 in Lokoja during an illness.
In the world of journalism, few individuals leave an indelible mark like Comrade Mathias Omale. A veteran journalist and former Deputy Director of News at Radio Kogi, many colleagues testify that his life was a testament to integrity, commitment, peaceful disposition, friendliness, and compassion in the pursuit of truth.
Known for his insatiable curiosity and passion, Mathias—popularly called by his colleagues—dedicated over three decades of his most productive years to journalism.
Records shows that Omale’s work not only informed the public but also championed the voices of the marginalized, reflecting a deep commitment to social justice.
The Comrade Omale understood the responsibilities that came with his role; he wielded his pen as a tool for change and transparency.
Colleagues and friends remember Mathias not just for his professional achievements but also his personal qualities.
He was a mentor to many, always willing to share his wisdom and guide aspiring journalists. His infectious enthusiasm for the craft inspired those around him, encouraging them to uphold the highest standards of journalistic practice.
Beyond the newsroom, Mathias made an indelible mark on the history of journalism in Nigeria.
He served as the former Vice President of Zone D of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, playing a vital role in advocating for the rights and interests of journalists.
He believed in the power of media to effect positive change and often used his platform to raise awareness about local issues through his unique style of reporting and commentary. His contributions extended far beyond reporting; many describe him as a community builder, fostering connections and promoting dialogue among diverse groups.
As we reflect on the life our departed colleague,it is essential to recognize the values he embodied: dedication, integrity, and empathy.
The optimism, especially journalists in the state is that,Mathias Omale’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of journalists to uphold the truth and serve their communities with honor.
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has expressed condolences to the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in the state over the passing of senior member Mathias Omale.
In a condolence message signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Ismaila Isah, Governor Ododo described the death of the veteran journalist as a great loss to the profession in the state.
The Governor sympathized with the family and friends of the deceased while commending the dedication and hard work exhibited by the late journalist throughout his career.
He noted that Comrade Omale made a significant mark at the Kogi State Broadcasting Corporation, inspiring many young journalists until his retirement as Deputy Director in the News Department.
The Governor prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased’s soul and for God to grant his family the fortitude to cope with their loss.
NUJ Zone D has also expressed grief over Omale’s passing, describing it as devastating and saddening. The Vice President of the Zone, Chris Atsaka, and the Zonal Secretary, Abdul S. Aji, in a statement, extended condolences to the immediate family of the late Omale, the NUJ Kogi State Council, and all journalists across the country who had relationships with him.
The zone characterized the late Omale as a peace-loving and jovial individual who treated his colleagues with utmost respect, regardless of their position or background.
They expressed regret that his valuable contributions and advice will be missed, noting that he always made himself available to support the union in any way possible.
The Kogi State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists has similarly described the death of veteran journalist Comrade Omale as an unfortunate and significant loss to the profession.
In a statement signed by the Chairman, Alhaji Seidu Ademu Haruna, and the Secretary, Comrade Olusegun Ayindero-Oyenibi, the council noted that Comrade deceased contributed immensely to the union’s successes during his active service.
The council stated that the former Vice President of Zone D would be missed for his impactful contributions at both the National and State levels, where he fostered unity, peace, and love among members.
The journalists acknowledged that death marks the end of all mortals and offered condolences to the immediate family and friends of the deceased, praying for God to grant them the strength to bear the irreparable loss and for Comrade Omale’s soul to rest in peace.
The deceased will be laid to rest on October 11, 2024, according to a statement from his family. The funeral arrangements are as follows:
On October 9, 2024, a wake will be held at his family home in Phase One Estate, Lokoja.
On October 10, the body will leave the Specialist Hospital in Lokoja for a requiem mass at St. Francis Catholic Church, Lokoja, at 10 A.M.
Immediately after the mass, the body will return to his family home in Ugwaka/Mission for another wake.
On October 11, a funeral mass will take place at St. Charles Catholic Church, Ugwaka/Olla, , to be followed by interment at his compound in the Ugwaka/Olla Community in Olamaboro Local Government Area of kogi state.
The belief of many is that,though Comrade Omale has left this world, his spirit lives on through the many lives he touched and the principles he championed.
Adieu, my dear colleague and friend, Comrade. Mathias Omale.
Ahmed publishes The Reporters.
