Nigeria’s political community has been thrown into deep mourning following the death of Senator Okey Ezea (Ideke), the lawmaker representing Enugu North Senatorial District.
Ezea who was his first election in 2023 to represent Nsukka Senatorial Zone reportedly died in London on Wednesday, 19th November, 2025 after a protracted illness.
Among the first to publicly express grief was former Abia State Governor and Chief Whip of the 9th Senate, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, who described the news as “heartbreaking, devastating, and personally painful.”
In an emotional condolence message, Kalu said he received the news of Senator Ezea’s passing with “profound shock and deep sorrow,” noting that the loss was not just political but deeply personal.
“Senator Okey 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,” Kalu said.
He recalled the spiritual connection they shared as devout Catholics, often worshipping together in the same chapel. According to him, those quiet moments of reflection and prayer remain unforgettable.
“With shared Catholic faith, we often celebrated Mass in the same chapel, lifting our voices to God in fellowship and reflection. Those moments are forever etched in my heart. He was a man of humility, integrity, and steadfast faith,” he added.
Kalu extended condolences to the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, describing Ezea as a “principled voice who contributed with clarity, courage, and conviction.” He noted that the late senator’s absence would leave a painful vacuum within the Senate.
The former governor also commiserated with the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, and the entire Enugu people—particularly the Nsukka community, where Ezea was widely loved and respected.
“Senator Ezea served his people with pride, dedication, and an unbreakable commitment to their wellbeing. His death is a profound loss not just to Nsukka, but to our nation,” Kalu stated.
To Ezea’s grieving family, Kalu offered prayers for strength and comfort during what he described as a deeply shattering period.
“Your husband, father, brother, and son was a noble man whose legacy of service and faith will continue to shine.”
Expressing his personal grief, Kalu said he takes solace in the honorable life the late senator lived and the countless lives he touched.
“As I mourn my dear brother, I take solace in knowing he lived honorably and touched countless lives. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.”
