The family of Distinguished Senator Okey Ezea, who represented Enugu North Senatorial District in the 10th Senate, has formally announced his passing, marking the end of a long and impactful public service career.
He died on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at about 11:07 pm in a private hospital in Lagos after a brief illness.
In a statement released on Wednesday by his son, Jideofor Ezea, the family described his death as a “painful and profound loss,” noting that the senator remained active and influential in legislative activities until his final days.
Senator Ezea played several key roles in the 10th Senate.
He started the session as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions before taking on additional leadership responsibilities as Vice Chairman of the Committees on Housing and Urban Development; Cooperation and Integration in Africa and NEPAD; and Culture and Creative Economy.
His legislative contributions were widely regarded as purposeful and people-centered. Among his achievements was sponsoring the bill establishing the Federal College of Agriculture, Adani, and championing the bill for the creation of Adada State, a cause he pursued with unwavering commitment until his health declined.
He also moved critical motions, including one urging the creation of a military base in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area to address persistent attacks by armed herdsmen.
Before winning the Enugu North Senate seat in 2023 under the Labour Party, Senator Ezea had been a founding member of the APC and a key figure in building the party’s structure in Enugu State.
He contested the governorship three times, in 2007, 2011, and 2015 and his 2023 senatorial victory, where he defeated an incumbent governor, remains one of the defining highlights of his political journey.
Beyond politics, he served the nation in various capacities, including as Chairman of the Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo, Taraba State.
Senator Ezea was also known for his unwavering political integrity.
He remained the only federal lawmaker from Enugu elected on the Labour Party platform in 2023 who refused to defect to the ruling party, choosing instead to stand firmly with the party that brought him to the Senate despite immense political pressure.
He is survived by his wife, Chioma, and four children.
The family has requested prayers and privacy as they navigate this difficult time, while tributes continue to pour in from colleagues, political leaders, and constituents who describe him as principled, courageous, and devoted to public service.
