Enugu Senator Okey Ezea dies in the UK after brief illness

Senator Okey Ezea, the lawmaker representing Enugu North Senatorial District, has died.

The Labour Party senator, who was the last remaining National Assembly member from Enugu State elected on the party’s platform, passed away on Tuesday in the United Kingdom, where he had been receiving medical treatment.

His death has thrown Enugu politics and the Labour Party community into mourning, coming at a time when the party has faced steady political setbacks across the state and the country.

The news of his passing was first made public by popular on-air personality, Chijinkem Ugwuanyi, who wrote on Facebook: “Sad News. Senator Okey Ezea, representing Enugu North, is dead… Rest in Peace.”

Ezea, a businessman-turned-politician, was known for his grassroots appeal and his role in boosting Labour Party’s rising influence in Enugu during the 2023 elections. His death leaves a major vacuum in the political landscape of Enugu North.

More details about funeral arrangements are expected in the coming days.