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From Adesuwa Tsan, Kenneth Udeh, Abuja and Jude Chinedu, Enugu
The death of Senator Okey Ezea has plunged the Senate, Enugu State, and the nation into deep mourning. Widely regarded as a principled, courageous and unwavering public servant, his absence leaves a significant void in the 10th National Assembly.
Ezea, who was born on August 11, 1963, was elected to the Senate on the platform of the Labour Party (LP) during the 2023 general elections.
Until his demise, Senator Ezea served as Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Cooperation and Integration in Africa and NEPAD and the Senate Committee on Culture and Creative Economy.
Former Abia State governor and Chief Whip of the Senate, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, described the late lawmaker as a trusted friend, brother and committed public servant whose passing has left him “personally devastated.”
Kalu said he received the news of Ezea’s death with profound shock and deep sorrow, noting that the late Senator representing Enugu North was more than just a colleague.
“His death is a painful blow that has left me personally devastated. Senator Ezea was more than a fellow legislator; he was a friend with whom I shared a close and sincere bond. Our friendship was built on mutual respect, brotherhood, and genuine affection.”
Kalu reflected on the spiritual bond they shared, explaining that their relationship extended beyond legislative work.
“With shared Catholic faith, we often celebrated Mass in the same chapel, lifting our voices to God in fellowship and reflection. Those quiet moments of prayer and spiritual communion remain etched in my heart.”
The former Senate chief whip described Ezea as “a man of humility, integrity, and steadfast faith… whose devotion to God and passion for service defined him in every sense.”
Kalu extended condolences to the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, noting that the Red Chamber had lost a principled and courageous voice.
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“The Senate has lost a principled voice, one who contributed with clarity, courage, and unshakable conviction. His absence will be deeply felt within our legislative family.”
He also commiserated with Governor Peter Mbah and the people of Enugu State, especially the Nsukka community, describing Ezea as a dedicated representative who served with pride and commitment.
“Senator Ezea served you with pride, dedication, and an unbreakable commitment to your wellbeing. His death is a profound loss not just to Nsukka, but to our nation.”
To the bereaved family, Kalu prayed for divine consolation, saying, “Your husband, father, brother, and son was a noble man whose legacy of service and faith will continue to shine.”
Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, also mourned the lawmaker’s death, describing it as shocking.
In a statement by his media adviser, Ismail Mudashir, Barau described Senator Ezea as a pan-Nigerian politician who contributed immensely to unity and national progress and worked hard to enhance the standard of living of his people and beyond.
He prayed for God’s strength for the family and the entire Enugu North constituency.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) paid an emotional tribute, describing Ezea as a good, wise and gentleman whose prayers supported her through difficult moments.
“Your prayers kept me going through my darkest moments, and I will miss you in chambers.”
She recalled Ezea’s sincerity, humility and the personal support he offered her during challenging periods. “Rest in peace, Distinguished Senator Okey Ezea. You were a good man—wise and gentle. Your prayers kept me going through my darkest moments, and I will miss you in chambers,” she wrote.
The lawmaker further noted that he was a respected bridge-builder with a calm temperament and forthright contributions on issues of national equity, transcending party, ethnic and religious lines.
