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From Kenneth Udeh, Abuja
Distinguished Senator Okey Ezea, who represented Enugu North Senatorial District in the 10th Senate, has died.
He passed away late Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at about 11:07 p.m. in a private hospital in Lagos after a brief illness.
His death was formally announced by his family in a statement signed by his son, Jideofor Ezea, on behalf of the family.
Until his passing, Senator Ezea served as the Vice Chairman of two key Senate Committees the Committee on Cooperation and Integration in Africa and NEPAD, and the Committee on Culture and Creative Economy.
He had earlier chaired the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, and later held other strategic roles, including Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Housing and Urban Development.
Senator Ezea was known for a legislative record defined by purposeful and impactful contributions. He sponsored the bill to establish the Federal College of Agriculture, Adani, and championed the landmark bill seeking the creation of Adada State, a legacy he pursued with unwavering commitment.
He also moved several motions, most notably the motion calling for the establishment of a military base in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State to curb persistent attacks by marauding herdsmen.
Before winning the Enugu North Senate seat in 2023 on the platform of the Labour Party, Senator Ezea was a founding member of the APC and played a pivotal role in building the party’s structure in Enugu State in 2013.
A three-time governorship contender, he ran under the Labour Party in 2007 and 2011, and later under the APC in 2016. His 2023 senatorial victory, where he defeated an incumbent governor, was widely regarded as a defining milestone in his political career.
Beyond elective politics, he held notable national positions, including his tenure as Chairman of the Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo, Taraba State.
Remarkably, until his passing, he remained the only federal lawmaker from Enugu State elected on the Labour Party platform in 2023 who refused to defect, standing firmly by the party that sponsored him despite intense political pressure.
Senator Okey Ezea is survived by his wife, Chioma, and four children. The family has requested prayers during this difficult time.
Tributes Pour In
Orji Uzor Kalu: “I am personally devastated”
Former Senate Chief Whip, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, expressed deep sorrow over Ezea’s death, describing him as a dear friend, brother, and a man of faith, humility, and integrity.
Kalu who currently represents Abia North noted their shared Catholic faith and the moments they spent attending Mass in the same chapel.
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“Our friendship extended beyond the chambers of the Senate. Senator Ezea was a man of humility, integrity, and steadfast faith. His death is a painful blow that has left me personally devastated.”
He extended condolences to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Governor Peter Mbah, the people of Enugu State, and especially the Nsukka community, describing the late senator as a patriotic Nigerian whose legacy of service will endure.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin: “A Pan-Nigerian politician”
The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, also mourned the lawmaker’s death, describing it as shocking.
In a statement by his media adviser, Ismail Mudashir, Barau wrote:
“Senator Okey Ezea was a pan-Nigerian politician who contributed immensely to unity and national progress. He 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: “Your prayers kept me going”
Senator Natasha H. Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) paid an emotional tribute, describing Ezea as a good, wise, and gentle man whose prayers supported her through difficult moments.
“Your prayers kept me going through my darkest moments, and I will miss you in chambers.”
She extended condolences to the people of Enugu North on behalf of Kogi Central.
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.
Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in due course.
May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
