The people of Nsukka were thrown into grief on Tuesday as news broke that Senator Okey Ezea, the Enugu North lawmaker known across the state as Ideke, has died while receiving treatment in the United Kingdom.
The lawmaker’s death sent ripples through Nsukka and the entire Enugu North zone, especially as many believed he had fully bounced back after suffering a partial stroke just three months ago.
Confirming the heartbreaking news, elder statesman Chief Nkem Ossai painted an emotional picture of the mood across the region.
“It’s a sad day. Nsukka has been thrown into mourning. Enugu North has lost a dedicated man who vowed to restore and develop his senatorial zone. The atmosphere is sombre since the news broke.
“The loss of Senator Okey Ezea is a significant blow to the political landscape of Enugu State, and his contributions will be remembered by many.”
Residents, supporters, and political associates are struggling to come to terms with the sudden death of a man widely regarded as a defender of his people and a strong voice in the National Assembly.
Until his passing, Ezea stood as the lone Labour Party survivor from Enugu State in the National Assembly, after every other LP lawmaker from the state crossed over to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Now, the zone he fought hard to uplift is united in mourning as tributes pour in for the man they called Ideke.
