The Senate mourned on Wednesday following the death of Senator Okechukwu Ezea, who represented Enugu North Senatorial District and reportedly passed away in the United Kingdom while receiving medical treatment.
Ezea, elected on the Labour Party platform, was the only LP member from Enugu State in the 10th National Assembly.
His death makes him the second serving senator from the South-East to die within two years, following the passing of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah of Anambra State in London in July 2024 at the age of 52.
As news of his death spread in the National Assembly, colleagues paid tributes, describing him as a humble, principled, and prayerful parliamentarian whose loss leaves a deep void in the chamber.
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu of Abia North said he received the news “with profound shock and deep sorrow,” describing Ezea as “my dear brother and colleague.”
Kalu 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.”
He recalled their shared Catholic faith and moments of worship. The former Abia governor extended condolences to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and the people of Enugu State, saying, “The Senate has lost a principled voice, one who contributed with clarity, courage, and unshakable conviction.”
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Kalu also commiserated with Governor Peter Mbah, the Nsukka community, and the deceased’s family, praying that God grants them the 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 her during difficult moments.
“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.
Natasha added, “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 address his death at plenary, with a minute of silence likely to be observed in his honour, in line with legislative tradition.