Akpabio pays tribute to late Senator Okechukwu Ezea at valedictory plenary
The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, on Tuesday led tributes in honour of the late Senator Okechukwu Okey Ezea during a valedictory plenary session of the Senate, describing his death as “a loss in our family” and one that transcends party lines.
In an emotional eulogy delivered on the floor of the Senate, Akpabio said the passing of Senator Ezea had plunged the chamber into deep mourning, noting that moments such as this remind lawmakers that beyond political affiliations, they are bound by shared humanity and collective responsibility to the nation.
The Senate President described the late lawmaker as a faithful servant of the Republic who laboured quietly but diligently in the task of nation-building, driven by conviction rather than circumstance.
According to him, although Ezea did not live to witness the full realisation of Nigeria’s promise, he departed with faith that the country was on the right path.
Akpabio highlighted Senator Ezea’s contributions in the National Assembly, particularly his role as Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Housing, as well as his active participation in other committees. He said the late senator earned the respect of his colleagues through his calm disposition, loyalty to the Constitution and unwavering commitment to public service.
“His was not a politics of noise, but of purpose; not of spectacle, but of service,” Akpabio said, noting that Ezea believed deeply in the dignity of public office and the enduring value of institutions and laws.
The Senate President also praised the late senator’s dedication to his constituents, recalling his efforts in facilitating empowerment initiatives and advocating for the welfare of the people he represented.
He extended the condolences of the Senate and the entire National Assembly to Senator Ezea’s family and constituents, thanking them for allowing him to serve Nigeria.
Akpabio prayed for God’s comfort and strength for those left behind, while urging lawmakers to draw lessons from the life of the deceased.
As the Senate observed the valedictory session, Akpabio said Senator Ezea’s legacy would continue to remind public office holders that leadership is a trust, service is a calling, and duty must always take precedence over personal interest.
Senator Okechukwu Okey Ezea, he added, will be remembered for his quiet dedication, integrity and commitment to the ideals of the Republic.
