Senator Okey Ezea of Enugu North has died in the UK, prompting tributes from colleagues in the Senate who mourn his principled and prayerful leadership
The Senate was thrown into mourning on Wednesday following the death of Senator Okey Ezea, who represented Enugu North Senatorial District and reportedly passed away in the United Kingdom while receiving medical treatment.
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Ezea, elected on the Labour Party platform, was the only LP member from Enugu State in the 10th National Assembly.
His death comes less than two years after the passing of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah of Anambra State, making him the second serving senator from the South-East to die within this period.
News of his passing elicited heartfelt tributes from colleagues who remembered him as a humble, principled, and prayerful parliamentarian whose loss leaves a deep void in the chamber.
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu of Abia North expressed profound shock and sorrow, describing Ezea as “my dear brother and colleague.” He added, “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.”
Recalling their shared Catholic faith, Kalu extended condolences to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Governor Peter Mbah, the Nsukka community, and the late senator’s family, praying for strength to bear the loss.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central also mourned Ezea, describing him as “a gentle and wise colleague whose encouragement sustained me during difficult moments.” She wrote, “You were a good man! Wise and gentle. Your prayers kept me going through my darkest moments, and I will miss you in chambers. Enugu North Senatorial District, Kogi Central honours your senator and mourns with you. Rest in peace, Distinguished Senator Okey Ezea.”
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The Senate is expected to formally address his death during plenary, observing a minute of silence in line with legislative tradition.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
