The Nigerian Senate on Wednesday held a somber and high-profile valedictory session to pay final tributes to the late Senator Okechukwu Ezea, who represented Enugu North Senatorial District. Senator Ezea passed away on November 18, 2025, at the age of 62.
The day’s proceedings were marked by deep emotion as the remains of the late lawmaker were laid in state at the foyer of the Senate Chamber. In a rare gesture of honor, the Senate invoked a motion to suspend its standing orders, allowing the late Senator’s wife, children, and relatives to enter the chamber for the special session.
Leading the tributes, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele described the late Ezea as a “principled voice” whose death has left a void in the National Assembly. He lauded the Labour Party (LP) lawmaker for his rare disposition, noting that he was a man guided by conscience rather than political expediency.
“He brought to this Senate a quiet wisdom that enriched our debates,” Senator Bamidele stated. “Beyond his role as a lawmaker, he was an industrialist and a ‘think tank’ for the private and public sectors, carrying the hopes of Enugu North with immense dignity.”
Senate President Godswill Akpabio expressed the collective grief of the chamber, describing Ezea as a “faithful servant of the republic” and a highly educated leader who remained optimistic about Nigeria’s future.
Reflecting the late Senator’s ability to build bridges across the political divide, colleagues from various parties shared their reflections:
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin described him as a “brother and friend” who stood firmly by his convictions.
Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (APGA) noted the “organic love” the people of Enugu North held for him.
Senator Victor Umeh (LP) highlighted Ezea’s massive contributions to human capital development.
Senator Osita Ngwu (PDP) and Senator Kelvin Chukwu (APC) both praised his integrity and courageous personality.
Following a three-hour session of tributes, the Senate observed a minute of silence and offered multi-faith prayers for the repose of his soul. The session concluded with a formal procession of Senators to inspect the remains of their departed colleague.
The Senate has officially resolved to:
Send a condolence delegation to the family and the Government of Enugu State.
Appoint a high-powered delegation to represent the National Assembly at the final funeral rites.
Senator Okechukwu Ezea, born August 11, 1963, was a prominent industrialist and political leader before his election to the 10th Senate. He is remembered as a champion of equity and a dedicated representative of the people of Enugu North.
