Lawmakers in the Nigerian Senate have expressed grief as the senator representing Enugu North Senatorial District, Okey Ezea, has passed away. Ezea, who was elected on the platform of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, reportedly died in the United Kingdom while receiving medical treatment for an undisclosed ailment. His death was formally …
Lawmakers Mourn as Enugu North Senator Ezea Dies in UK
Lawmakers in the Nigerian Senate have expressed grief as the senator representing Enugu North Senatorial District, Okey Ezea, has passed away.
Ezea, who was elected on the platform of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, reportedly died in the United Kingdom while receiving medical treatment for an undisclosed ailment.
His death was formally announced by his family in a statement signed by his son, Jideofor Ezea, on behalf of the family. His sudden demise has sent shockwaves through the National Assembly and across his senatorial district in Enugu State.
Senator Ezea, popularly known as Ideke, was the only remaining Labour Party member from Enugu State still in the National Assembly, after other state members defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
His death comes barely a year after another South East Senator, Ifeanyi Ubah of Anambra State, who also passed away in London in July 2024.
Ezea’s colleagues in the Senate paid tribute.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin: “A Pan-Nigerian politician”
The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, expressed shock over the lawmaker’s death.
In a statement by his media adviser, Ismail Mudashir, Barau said: “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 representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Ezea, describing him as a dear friend, brother, and a man of faith, humility, and integrity.
The former Senate Chief Whip said they had a deeper bond that extended beyond the Senate chambers.
“Our friendship was built on mutual respect, brotherhood, and genuine affection.
“Our relationship extended far beyond the chambers of the Senate. With shared Catholic faith, we often celebrated Mass in the same Catholic chapel, lifting our voices to God in fellowship and reflection.
“Those quiet moments of prayer and spiritual communion remain etched in my heart. Senator Ezea was a man of humility, integrity, and steadfast faith. His devotion to God and his passion for service defined him in every sense,” Senator Kalu stated.
He extended condolences to the president of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio.
“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,” Kalu added.
The former Abia State governor also extended his condolences to the Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, and the Nsukka community over the loss.
He said Senator Ezea served the people with pride, dedication, and a strong commitment to their well-being. “His death is a profound loss not just to Nsukka, but to our nation.”
Also, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, in a condolence message posted on her Facebook page, described Senator Ezea as a wise, gentle, and prayerful man.
The Kogi Central Senator said Ezea’s prayers sustained her during her darkest moments, adding that she will miss him so much in chambers.
“Enugu North Senatorial District, Kogi Central honors your Senator and mourns with you,” Akpoti-Uduaghan stated.
Ezea’s Political Journey
Observers described Okey Ezea’s political journey as one of perseverance. He contested the Enugu State governorship seat three times before being elected to the Senate in 2023 on the platform of the Labour Party.
His election was particularly significant as he defeated Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, who was the governor of the state at the time.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist, scholar and analyst of socioeconomic issues in Nigeria and Africa. He is skilled in energy reporting, business and economy, and holds a master's degree in Mass Communication. He can be reached via @VICTOREZEJA on X
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