November 19, (THEWILL) — The Senator representing Enugu North Senatorial District, Okey Ezea, has died. He passed away on Tuesday at a private hospital in Lagos after a brief illness.
His family confirmed the development in a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by his son, Jideofor Ezea.
“With profound grief, the family of Distinguished Senator Okey Ezea announces his passing,” the statement read.
The late lawmaker was described as “an active and influential voice in the 10th Senate,” maintaining a firm presence in legislative debates until his final days.
Jideofor noted that at the commencement of the current Senate, Ezea chaired the Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, before taking up other strategic roles, including Vice Chairman of the Committee on Housing and Urban Development.
Until his death, he also served as Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Cooperation and Integration in Africa and NEPAD, and was a member of the Committee on Culture and Creative Economy.
His legislative record, according to the family, was “defined by purposeful and impactful contributions.”
Before winning the Enugu North Senate seat under the Labour Party in 2023, Ezea had a long and eventful political career.
The family described him as a founding member of the APC who played a significant role in establishing the party’s presence in Enugu.
He contested the governorship in 2007 and 2011, later stepping away before returning to frontline politics in 2023 on the Labour Party platform.
Beyond politics, he held national appointments, including serving as Chairman of the Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo, Taraba State.
Reflecting on his journey to the Senate, the family said he “overcame a turbulent political path” and “never wavered on his principles, resolutely serving the nation until his last day.”
“As we mourn this painful loss, we respectfully request prayers for the family during this difficult time,” the statement added.
Senator Ezea is survived by his wife, Chiamaka, and four children.
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