The Nigerian Senate was plunged into grief on Wednesday following the passing of Senator Okey Ezea, who represented Enugu North Senatorial District. Reports indicate that the lawmaker died in the United Kingdom while receiving medical treatment.
Ezea, elected under the Labour Party platform, was the sole representative of the party from Enugu State in the 10th National Assembly. His death comes less than two years after the demise of another South-East senator, Ifeanyi Ubah of Anambra State, who also passed away in London in July 2024 at the age of fifty-two.
Colleagues in the National Assembly described Ezea as a humble, principled, and prayerful legislator whose contributions left a lasting impact. Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North, expressed profound sadness, saying, “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, a former governor of Abia State, also recalled their shared Catholic faith and moments of worship, extending condolences to the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, the people of Enugu State, and Governor Peter Mbah. “The Senate has lost a principled voice, one who contributed with clarity, courage, and unshakable conviction,” he added.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central joined the tributes, describing Ezea as a gentle and wise colleague. “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 said. “Enugu North Senatorial District, Kogi Central honours your senator and mourns with you. Rest in peace, Distinguished Senator Okey Ezea.”
The Senate is expected to formally commemorate his life during plenary sessions, observing a minute of silence in his honour. Okay News reports that arrangements for his remains and the official tributes in Nigeria are ongoing.
