SWAN Mourns As Veteran Journalist, Anthony Okoroigwe Dies @ 77

...Imo SWAN Mourns Founding Member

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Imo State Chapter, has announced the death of veteran journalist and revered media practitioner, Anthony Okoroigwe, describing his passing as a huge loss to the journalism profession in the state.

Speaking on behalf of the association, Chairman of Imo SWAN, Cosmos Chukwuemeka, said the late Okoroigwe, who died at the age of 77, was one of the founding fathers of SWAN in Imo State and a man whose commitment and selfless service helped shape the association in its formative years.

“Anthony Okoroigwe was not just a colleague, he was an institution within Imo SWAN. He served the association diligently in various capacities, including as Treasurer and Assistant Secretary, and his contributions laid a solid foundation for what SWAN has become today,” Chukwuemeka said.

Chukwuemeka described the late journalist as a disciplined professional, mentor and bridge-builder whose wealth of experience and calm disposition earned him respect across generations of journalists in the state.

Okoroigwe, who hails from Eziama Oparanadim, Ahiazu Mbaise, 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 principled reporting, dedication to duty and an unwavering commitment to ethical journalism.

Chukwuemeka noted that beyond his professional excellence, the deceased would be fondly remembered for his jovial nature, accessibility and willingness to guide younger journalists, qualities that made him a stabilising figure both within SWAN and the wider media community in Imo State.

“His death has created a vacuum that will not be easy to fill. 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.

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, Imo Chapter, extended its heartfelt condolences to the Okoroigwe family, his friends, colleagues, and the entire media community in the state, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.