He was indeed a patriot – Gov Mbah
It was a solemn moment in Itchi, Igboeze South Local Government Area of Enugu state, Friday, when the body of the late Senator who represented Enugu North Senatorial zone in the 10th Senate on the platform of the Labour Party, Okey Ezea, was laid to rest amidst tears.
In his homily, at the solemn funeral Mass held at Senator Ezea’s residence in Itchi, the Catholic Bishop of Nsukka Diocese, His Lordship, Most Rev Prof Godfrey Onah, described the late Senator as a courageous and selfless leader whose public life was defined by candour and conviction.
Bishop Noah of Nsukka Catholic diocese giving a homily.
Senator Ezea’s family
He said the late senator was an “activist for Nsukka people” who consistently demanded justice and equity for his constituents.
Bishop Onah also commended the Governor of Enugu state, Dr Peter Mbah for approving a state burial , describing the gesture as a demonstration of leadership maturity and respect for public service. The Bishop noted that honouring leaders who served with integrity reinforces societal values
In his speech, Enugu state Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah who led a host of dignitaries, political leaders and residents to pay their last respect to the late Senator, described him as a patriot who remained true to his convictions until his final days.
Governor Mbah said the senator’s death was a profound loss not only to his family and constituents, but to the entire Enugu state.
Governor Mbah
“We have gathered to pray for the peaceful repose of our brother as he journeys into the next phase of life. The death of Okey Ezea is not just a loss to the family or to the senatorial zone; it is a loss to the entire state,” Mbah said.
He recalled that the late senator distinguished himself in the Nigeria Customs Service before venturing into private enterprise and later politics, noting that he understood the true essence of service and remained passionate about improving the welfare of his people.
“Okey was unpretentious and uncompromising in his quest to improve the welfare of his people and in service to the state and the nation. He demonstrated that the length of life is not what truly matters, but the impact one makes.
” Okey’s life was impactful. He was indeed a patriot,” he said.
Mbah, who approved a state burial in honour of the deceased, assured the family of the government’s support, stressing that they were not alone in their grief.
In their separate tributes, speakers described Senator Ezea as fearless, principled and deeply devoted to the political and economic advancement of Enugu North and Ndigbo at large.
Senator Ezea’s son, Jideofor
In his vote of thanks, his first son, Jideofor Ezea, thanked Governor Mbah members of the Senate, the Church, well wishers and members of the burial committee for their support.
The funeral drew mourners from across political parties, religious bodies and professional groups,
Dignitaries present were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, Senator Victor Umeh, who chaired the burial committee, and Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, among others
Ezea died on November 18, 2025, at the age of 62 after a brief illness.
