Delta State Mourns the Loss of Former Police Commissioner Matthew Egwuenu
The law enforcement community and residents of Delta State are in mourning following the announcement of the death of retired police commissioner Matthew Egwuenu. The influential former officer passed away at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy marked by dedication and integrity.
Family Announces Peaceful Passing
The Egwuenu family confirmed the sad news through a statement released on Sunday, February 8, 2026. The announcement was made by John Paul Egwuenu on behalf of the family, revealing that Chief Matthew Egwuenu died peacefully on Friday, February 6, 2026. The family expressed profound sorrow at the loss of their beloved patriarch.
Matthew Egwuenu hailed from Ukwuani Local Government Area in Delta State and served as a commissioner of police before his retirement. His death has sparked an outpouring of grief from colleagues, community members, and public figures who remember his contributions to law enforcement and public service.
A Legacy of Integrity and Service
In their official statement, the family highlighted Egwuenu's remarkable character and professional achievements. They described him as a man of unwavering honour, selfless service, and unshakeable integrity. Throughout his career and personal life, he was known for his dedication to duty, deep love for his family, and commitment to leadership and discipline.
The statement further noted that his wisdom, warmth, and gentle strength would remain in the hearts of all who knew him. His passing represents not just a personal loss for his family but a significant moment for Delta State's law enforcement history.
Family and Professional Connections
Matthew Egwuenu is survived by one son and five daughters, including prominent media personality Ojy Okpe. Okpe serves as a television anchor with Arise News, where she hosts What's Trending with Ojy Okpe and co-anchors The Morning Show. She is also recognized as a film producer and model, having studied at St. John's University in New York, USA.
The connection between Egwuenu's law enforcement career and his daughter's media work highlights the diverse impact of his family across different sectors of Nigerian society. His legacy continues through his children, grandchildren, and extended family members who will carry forward his values and contributions.
Broader Context of Recent Losses
The news of Egwuenu's passing comes amid other notable deaths in Nigerian public life. Recently, Charles Idahosa, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress and former commissioner for information during the Lucky Igbinedion administration in Edo State, died at age 72. Known popularly as Akakasiaka and Charlie Tempo, Idahosa was a vocal political figure who served as political adviser to former governor Adams Oshiomhole.
Additionally, Professor Buba Garegy Bajoga, a renowned academic and accomplished engineer, passed away at 88. Bajoga held significant positions including director and managing director roles at the Nigerian Telecommunications Limited (NITEL), and contributed to various national organizations including the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN).
These recent losses underscore the passing of an generation of Nigerian professionals who made substantial contributions across different fields including law enforcement, politics, and academia.
Community Impact and Remembrance
Matthew Egwuenu's death has particularly resonated in Delta State where he served and lived. His career as police commissioner placed him in a position of significant responsibility and influence, affecting security policies and community relations throughout the region. Those who worked with him remember his approach to law enforcement as both firm and compassionate, balancing the demands of public safety with community engagement.
As arrangements are made for his final rites, tributes continue to pour in from across Nigeria. Colleagues from the police force, community leaders from Ukwuani Local Government Area, and public figures who interacted with him during his service years have all expressed their condolences and shared memories of his professional conduct and personal character.
The legacy of Matthew Egwuenu serves as a reminder of the important role that dedicated public servants play in shaping communities and maintaining social order. His life story exemplifies how integrity and commitment can leave lasting impressions that extend far beyond an individual's career or lifetime.
