Unity Federated Chapel Condoles with Zik FM over death of Ag Manager, Ozioma Onwuka-Okereke

Members of the Unity Federated Chapel of the Abia State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) have paid a condolence visit to Zik FM Radio, Umuahia, following the death of the acting station’s manager, Comrade Ozioma Onwuka-Okereke.

The delegation, led by the Chapel Chairman, Comrade Felix Obani, described the late Ozioma as a dedicated professional and a result-oriented journalist who left a remarkable impact both within the chapel and the broadcast industry.

Speaking during the visit, Comrade Obani noted that the chapel received the news of Ozioma’s passing with deep shock but drew comfort from the biblical injunction not to “weep like those without hope.”

He recalled her immense contribution to the Unity Federated Chapel, especially as chairman of the 2024 end-of-year get-together planning committee, which he described as colourful and well-organised due to her exceptional coordination skills and wide professional network.

He added that the chapel visited to console the management and staff of Zik FM, assuring that Ozioma would be accorded all entitlements and rights as contained in the chapel’s bylaws.

He further pledged the chapel’s support toward ensuring a befitting burial for the late broadcaster, while urging the station’s management, particularly its Chief Executive Officer, Mazi Isaac Okoroafor, to find solace in the knowledge that Ozioma lived a life of service.

Members of Unity Federated Chapel in group photograph with management of Zik FM

She recalled that the station’s CEO personally attended one of the chapel’s get-togethers, demonstrating a strong synergy between both bodies.

Ikwegbu encouraged the staff to emulate Ozioma’s commitment and work ethic, while urging eligible workers to join the NUJ and Unity Federated Chapel for greater professional development.

She lauded Zik FM’s contributions to the promotion of Igbo language, culture, and values, describing the station as a vital voice for cultural preservation in the region.

Recounting her personal relationship with the late Ozioma through professional associations such as the NUJ, NIPR, NAWOJ, and the Stand Up for Women Society, Ikwegbu said her death will remain a painful loss.

She also called for increased support for the station’s acting station manager to sustain its growth and impact.

The chapel’s treasurer, Imeremba Imeremba, who worked closely with Ozioma during the 2024 end-of-year event, described her as a perfectionist and workaholic who pursued excellence in every assignment.

Imeremba commended Zik FM as a leading voice in Igbo-language broadcasting and advocated stronger collaboration among staff, management, and the board for the continued success of the station.

Responding, the CEO of Zik FM, Mazi Isaac Okoroafor, expressed gratitude for the visit, describing it as a source of comfort to the entire station.

Okoroafor recounted how Ozioma was introduced to him during the early stages of establishing Zik FM and how her dedication and hard work contributed immensely to its growth.

He described the late Ozioma as the “chief marketer” of the station, noting that she was responsible for generating over 60 percent of its revenue through her passion and drive.

He announced November 13, 2025, a tentative date for her burial and assured that both the chapel and the station would collaborate to give her a befitting farewell.

He reaffirmed his commitment to staff welfare, stating that prompt payment of salaries would continue as part of his belief in rewarding diligence and ensuring stability for workers’ families.

He also encouraged staff to maintain professionalism and unity, pledging continued support for the NUJ as partners in media excellence.

Lending his voice, Comrade Chidi Asonye, the pioneer chairman of the Unity Federated Chapel and current Chairman of NUJ Abia State Council, appreciated members for their solidarity visit despite their tight schedules.

He commended the management of Zik FM for its continued partnership with the union and expressed confidence that Ozioma’s legacy would continue to inspire journalists across the state.

The visit highlighted the close bond between media professionals in Abia State and underscored the late Ozioma’s influence in strengthening the relationship between the NUJ and Zik FM.

Her death marks the loss of a dedicated broadcaster whose commitment to journalism, cultural promotion, and teamwork left an enduring legacy in the state’s media landscape.