By Henry Umoru, Abuja

Prominent lawmakers have expressed profound grief over the death of Senator Okey Ezea, representing Enugu North Senatorial District, who passed away on Tuesday in Lagos after a brief illness.

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (APC, Abia North), Chairman of the Senate Committee on South East Development Commission (SEDC), described Ezea’s death as “heartbreaking and devastating.” In a statement, the former Abia State Governor said:

“I received with profound shock and deep sorrow the heartbreaking news of the passing of my dear brother and colleague, Senator Okey Ezea. His death is a painful blow that has left me personally devastated. Senator Ezea was more than a fellow legislator; he was a friend with whom I shared a close and sincere bond built on mutual respect, brotherhood, and genuine affection.”

Kalu also highlighted their shared Catholic faith and spiritual fellowship, noting that Ezea’s humility, integrity, and steadfast devotion to God defined him. “To his immediate family, I pray that God grants you strength and comfort during this painful period. Your husband, father, brother, and son was a noble man whose legacy of service and faith will continue to shine,” Kalu said.

Similarly, the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin (APC, Kano North), extended condolences, praising Ezea as a pan-Nigerian politician who contributed immensely to national unity and progress. In a statement issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, Jibrin noted that Ezea, a lawyer and businessman born on August 11, 1963, had been elected on the Labour Party platform in the 2023 general elections and served as Vice Chairman of both the Senate Committee on Cooperation and Integration in Africa and NEPAD, as well as the Senate Committee on Culture and Creative Economy.

Describing his death as “shocking,” Jibrin said: “The late Senator would be remembered for his commitment to the Nigerian project through his various contributions in and outside the Senate. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Madam Chioma, his children, the people of Enugu North Senatorial District, and Enugu State in general. May God grant them the strength to bear this irreparable loss. Senator Okey Ezea was a patriotic Nigerian par excellence who worked hard to enhance the standard of living of his constituents and beyond.”

Senator Ezea’s passing has drawn tributes from across the political spectrum, with colleagues lauding his principled leadership, humility, and dedication to public service. He leaves behind a legacy of advocacy, nation-building, and bridge-building across party and ethnic lines.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family and the National Assembly.