Philip Ochieng, a celebrated Journalist and writer known for his long standing columnist with the Sunday Nation newspaper has died aged 82.

Confirming his death, the family revealed that Ochienng died from pneumonia at his home in Awendo, Migori on Tuesday, 27 April.

The late journalist will be remembered for his column in the Daily Nation, superior hold of grammar and command of The Queen’s English.

Hours after news of Ochieng’s death broke, Kenyans online shares outpouring messages of condolences and tributes.

ODM leader Raila Odinga remembered the late journalist through a tweet, describing Ochieng as a legendary columnist with unmatched prowess.

“Kenya has lost in the passing of Philip Ochieng, a veteran journalist and legendary columnist with an unmatched prowess of the English language.

“Through the power of the pen, Philip spoke to the most powerful and moved the society into action,” Raila stated.

“Rest in peace Philip Ochieng. You trained me to love journalism when I was still at the university. You mentored many of us. You gave me two books; Kenyatta Succession and I Accuse the Press. You were an avid reader and loved good stories. Rest Mzee,” Nation Special Projects Managing Editor eulogized the fallen giant.

Kenya’s High Commissioner to the UK remembered Ochieng as, “a towering figure in Kenya’s media space. A master wordsmith. Sharp witted. Icon.”

Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya eulogized the wordsmith by hailing his contribution in shaping and mentoring journalists.

“My heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of legendary scribe Philip Ochieng’. Philip shaped and mentored many journalists. His articles motivated many readers and shaped the society,” Oparanya tweeted.

The late Philip Ochieng attended Alliance High School before moving to the USA during the first student airlift in 1959. He begun his career in journalism as a trainee reporter at Nation before rising through the ranks.