Enugu, Nigeria | November 19, 2025
Senator Okey Ezea is being remembered across Nigeria as a principled and disciplined public servant whose death has left a significant vacuum in national and regional leadership. His passing on November 18, 2025, following a brief illness, triggered an immediate national response from political leaders, institutions, and community organizations who regarded him as a steadfast advocate for development, fairness, and accountable governance.
“Okey Ezea is receiving nationwide tributes following his death on November 18, 2025. Governor Peter Mbah, Senate leaders, political groups, and constituents have described Okey Ezea as a principled and development-driven lawmaker whose work in the National Assembly left a lasting impact. This report highlights Governor Mbah’s reaction, Senate condolences, Labour Party messages, and reflections from colleagues such as Orji Uzor Kalu and Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Okey Ezea’s legislative record, including his focus on agriculture, security, and state creation, continues to define his legacy in Enugu North and Nigeria.”
Governor Peter Mbah led the early wave of tributes, describing Okey Ezea as a statesman whose clarity of purpose, intellectual discipline, and devotion to the people of Enugu North shaped his contributions to national discourse. Mbah noted that the late senator demonstrated a rare understanding of public duty and consistently pursued policies designed to uplift communities and strengthen democratic institutions.
Within the Senate, lawmakers across political divides expressed deep sorrow, recounting how Okey Ezea earned the respect of colleagues through his calm demeanor, measured interventions, and dedication to legislative excellence. The Senate leadership praised his contributions to debates on national security, agricultural reform, and the strengthening of federal institutions, describing him as a voice of rationality and balance.
The Labour Party, which produced him as senator, described Okey Ezea as a remarkable asset who embodied the party’s philosophy of people-centred governance. In its statement, the party highlighted his unwavering commitment to equity, welfare-driven legislation, and the empowerment of youths through education, skills development, and better access to economic opportunities.
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu offered an especially moving tribute, recalling his personal relationship with Okey Ezea and describing it as one anchored not just in politics but in shared values and mutual admiration. Kalu emphasized that Ezea represented the best traditions of patriotism, humility, and leadership, portraying him as someone whose words carried weight because they were grounded in sincerity.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan added her voice to the growing list of mourners, praising Okey Ezea for his emotional intelligence, empathy, and spiritual support during her challenging moments in the National Assembly. According to her, he was more than a colleague—he was a reassuring presence whose calm counsel and generosity helped steady those around him.
Community leaders across Nsukka Zone reflected on the projects and interventions championed by Okey Ezea, particularly his advocacy for the establishment of the Federal College of Agriculture in Adani. They described him as a visionary who understood the transformative potential of agriculture in rural economies, emphasizing that his legislative focus aligned with local aspirations for sustainable development.
Traditional rulers and cultural institutions also expressed grief, recalling how Okey Ezea maintained strong ties with grassroots communities despite the demanding pressures of national office. They said his accessibility, respectful engagement, and deep cultural awareness made him stand out among public officials, ensuring that he retained the affection of ordinary citizens.
Youth organizations across Enugu North paid tribute to Okey Ezea, noting his consistent push for greater youth inclusion in governance and economic participation. They highlighted his mentorship programmes, community development initiatives, and support for educational reforms as evidence of his belief that the future of the region depended on empowered young people equipped to lead.
As Nigeria continues to reflect on his legacy, many believe Okey Ezea will be remembered for his integrity, discipline, and unwavering dedication to national progress. His contributions to the Senate, his engagement with his constituents, and the principles he demonstrated in public life form a lasting narrative of service that will continue to inspire future leaders across Enugu State and beyond.
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