November 25, 2025
The Senate on Tuesday suspended its plenary session to honour the late Senator Okechukwu Ezea, who represented the Enugu North Senatorial District and passed away on Tuesday, November 18. The decision followed a motion moved by the Leader of the Senate, Opeyemi Bamidele, in accordance with longstanding parliamentary customs that guide the chamber’s response to the death of a sitting member.
The motion, which was seconded by Deputy Minority Leader Senator Olalere Oyewumi, called for the halt of all legislative business for the day. Bamidele noted that it was both tradition and an expression of respect for the deceased to pause deliberations and observe a period of mourning.
He added that members of the Senate would, after adjournment, visit the family of the late lawmaker to offer their condolences. “It is unfortunate this death occurred,” Bamidele said, reflecting the chamber’s collective grief.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio then directed all senators to rise for a one-minute silence in honour of Senator Ezea. He reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to supporting the bereaved family and acknowledged the significant impact of the lawmaker’s passing on the National Assembly.
The chamber later formally suspended the remainder of the day’s agenda, ensuring that legislative focus shifted entirely toward honouring the late senator and engaging in appropriate condolence activities. The leadership emphasised that such moments strengthen institutional unity and preserve the dignity of parliamentary traditions.
Through this gesture, the Senate once again underscored its resolve to maintain respect for departed colleagues, a principle that has guided its operations for decades. The day’s proceedings were thus fully suspended in recognition of Senator Ezea’s service and contribution to national legislative work.
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