Senator Okey Ezea, the lawmaker representing the Enugu North Senatorial District, has tragically died at the age of 62 while receiving medical care in the United Kingdom. Details surrounding his death remain officially unclear, though the news has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Enugu State and the National Assembly.
Africa Update gathered that Senator Ezea was a leading figure in the Labour Party and was the sole remaining National Assembly member from Enugu State following the recent elections. His death creates a significant void in the representation of his constituency and state at the federal level.
The news of the Senator’s passing was first shared by media personality Chijinkem Ugwuanyi via social media, leading to an immediate outpouring of tributes. Before his final travel to the UK, Senator Ezea had also sought medical treatment in Germany.
Born on August 11, 1963, in Enugu State, Senator Ezea’s political career was marked by persistence, ambition, and dedication to his home state. His journey culminated in his successful 2023 Senate bid under the platform of the Labour Party, securing a mandate to represent Enugu North.
Prior to his time in the Senate, his political activities included high-profile attempts to secure the state’s highest office, contesting the gubernatorial elections in both 2007 and 2011. His impact on the national scene was also notable, as he was a co-founder of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Enugu State and served as Chairman of the Federal Medical Center in Jalingo.
Senator Ezea was an accomplished professional outside of politics. He earned a degree in Political Science from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and later obtained both LL.B and LL.M degrees in Law from the University of Lagos.
He began his distinguished professional career with the Nigerian Customs Service before moving into the private sector, where he established and managed various businesses, including Ideke Shipping Limited.
Condolences and tributes have been pouring in across social media platforms from his constituents, legislative colleagues, and political well-wishers, all mourning the loss of the experienced politician and dedicated public servant.
