Journalists in Benue State have paid glowing tributes to the late Patrick Omora, describing him as a distinguished broadcaster, dependable unionist, and a symbol of professionalism whose death has left a void in the state’s media landscape.
The tributes were delivered on Thursday during a valedictory session held in his honour at the NUJ House in Makurdi, organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Benue State Council.
Speaking on behalf of the council, NUJ Chairman, Comrade Bemdoo Ugber said the journalism community was deeply saddened by Omora’s passing, noting that Benue had lost one of its finest voices.
“The news of his passing came to us as a painful shock. The journalism family in Benue State has lost one of its finest voices on Radio Benue, the Market Coordinator (Tor Kasua),” Ugber said.
He described Omora as more than a media practitioner, calling him “an institution of wisdom, humility and dedication.” As Deputy Director of Current Affairs at Radio Benue, producer of the respected programmes, Issues of the Moment and Platform, and Assistant Secretary of the NUJ Radio Benue Chapel, Omora was known for excellence, courage, and uncommon commitment to duty.
“He used the microphone not to divide society, but to enlighten, educate and inspire the people. His voice became a symbol of responsibility, balance and professionalism in broadcasting,” Ugber added.
The NUJ chairman highlighted Omora’s role in fostering unity among journalists, noting that he was calm in difficult moments and always ready to offer solutions. “His contributions to the growth of journalism in Benue State will never be forgotten,” he said.
Ugber extended the union’s condolences to Omora’s family, the Radio Benue Chapel, and the management and staff of Radio Benue, praying for God to grant his soul eternal rest.
Other speakers at the session also eulogised the late broadcaster. The Director General of Radio Benue, Terseer Mnzuulgha who described the late Omara as a thorough breed, urged Omora’s wife to instill in her children the values her husband stood for, and called on journalists to prioritise regular medical check-ups. He commended the NUJ for honouring Omora’s memory.
Igba Ogbole, General Manager of Agate Radio, said Omora was gone but his memory would live on, urging the widow to take solace in God. On his part, Chief Elaigwu Abutu, General Manager of Brothers FM, described Omora as “a man of the people” who related well with everyone, and encouraged journalists to emulate his work ethic.
Also speaking Director News and Current Affairs, Radio Benue, David Vihi described the deceased as highly professional and dedicated. He thanked the NUJ leadership for the honour while Comrade Nancy Orshi, National Trustee of NUJ, said Omora’s death was “one loss too many” and prayed for strength for his family and the union.
Responding on behalf of the family, Barrister Samuel Omora expressed gratitude for the tributes, saying Patrick was a father figure to the entire family. He thanked the management of Radio Benue and the NUJ for their support during the bereavement.
