By Peter.
The Nigerian Senate plunged into mourning Wednesday morning with the sudden death of Senator Okey Ezea, the Labour Party lawmaker representing Enugu North Senatorial District, who died in the United Kingdom while receiving medical treatment.
Ezea, the only Labour Party senator from Enugu State in the 10th Assembly, becomes the second serving South-East senator to die in office within 16 months—following Senator Ifeanyi Ubah (Anambra South), who also passed in London in July 2024 at age 52.
Colleagues Pour Out Grief
Tributes flooded in from across the red chamber:
- Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North): “I received the news with profound shock and deep sorrow. Senator Ezea was my dear brother and colleague. His death is a painful blow that has left me personally devastated. He was a friend with whom I shared a close and sincere bond… The Senate has lost a principled voice.” He prayed for strength for the family, Governor Peter Mbah, and Nsukka people.
- Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central): “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, Kogi Central honours your senator and mourns with you. Rest in peace, Distinguished Senator Okey Ezea.”
Senate President Godswill Akpabio is expected to lead a formal tribute and a minute’s silence when plenary resumes, as tradition demands.
Ezea’s death leaves a gaping void in the minority caucus and in Enugu North, where he was seen as a quiet, prayerful, and deeply principled voice.
Rest in peace, Distinguished Senator Okey Ezea. The Senate—and Nigeria—will miss you. 🕊️🇳🇬
#RIPSenatorEzea #EnuguMourns #10thSenate
