Barrister Matthew Ochiobi, Abia State Commissioner for Sports, is dead.

Transport & Business Express learnt that the Isiala Ngwa South-born politician reportedly died of heart attack at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Umuahia. The former lawmaker was said to have been devastated by the news of the gruesome murder of his brother who was a police officer in charge of the State Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) in Onitsha, Anambra State, by unknown gunmen.

Reports said he took ill after receiving the shocking news of his brother’s death and was rushed to the FMC, where he was placed on life support. Sources said he died before the burial of the remains of his brother last weekend.

Abia State governor, Chief Theodore Orji, is mourning the untimely exit of the amiable and humble sports administrator, describing his death as shocking.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ugochukwu Emezue, reads: “Abia State Governor Chief T. A. Orji has described the death of one of his Commissioner, Hon. Barr. Matthew Ochobi, who was in charge of sports as a big shock.

“The Governor said he is yet to come to terms with the demise of this amiable lawyer and politician. According to the Governor, Barr. Ochobi remained committed to his duties as a member of the State Exco before his untimely death.

“Chief Orji who lamented the exit of this young and easy going sports boss, said that the late former member of Abia State House of Assembly will be remembered for his positive actions in the sports ministry. Chief Orji condoled with the family of the bereaved asking them to bear the loss with fortitude, since no one can question God on this issue. He prayed God to grant his soul eternal rest.”

The late Commissioner was sworn into office on July 13, 2011.

*Photo: Governor Orji: ‘Ochobi’s death shocking.’