Enugu Senator Okey Ezea Dies in Lagos After Brief Illness

Senator Okey Ezea, the lawmaker representing Enugu North Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has died in Lagos while receiving medical treatment. His death, which occurred on Tuesday night after a brief illness, was confirmed on Wednesday in a statement issued by his son, Jideofor Ezea.

The family appealed for prayers as they navigate what they described as a painful and unexpected loss. “As we mourn this painful loss, we respectfully request prayers for the family during this difficult time,” the statement read.

The Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, led tributes to the late lawmaker, describing him as a dedicated public servant and a pan-Nigerian figure whose contributions transcended regional boundaries. Until his death, Ezea served as Vice Chairman of both the Senate Committee on Cooperation and Integration in Africa and NEPAD, and the Senate Committee on Culture and Creative Economy.

Barau praised Ezea’s commitment to fostering unity, progress, and national development, noting that his death came as a shock to colleagues and constituents alike. “Senator Okey Ezea was a patriotic Nigerian par excellence, who worked hard to enhance the standard of living of the people of Enugu North Senatorial District and beyond,” he said in a statement released through his media aide, Ismail Mudashir.

He extended condolences to Ezea’s widow, Mrs. Chioma Ezea, their children, and the people of Enugu North and Enugu State at large. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the immediate family of my friend, his wife, Madam Chioma, his children, the entire people of Enugu North Senatorial District, and Enugu State in general. May God grant them the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” he added.

Born on August 11, 1963, Ezea was a lawyer, businessman, and prominent Labour Party (LP) politician. He was elected in the 2023 general elections and served as the only LP senator from Enugu State in the 10th National Assembly.

His passing marks a significant loss for his constituents, his party, and the Senate, where he was widely regarded as an advocate for national cohesion and socioeconomic advancement.