The Senate yesterday held a valedictory session in honour of the late Senator Okechukwu Ezea.

The lawmakers described their late colleague as a principled man whose death has left a gap in the National Assembly.

Ezea, who represented Enugu North Senatorial District in the 10th National Assembly on the platform of the Labour Party (LP), died in November after a brief illness.

His wife, Chioma, children, family members and associates attended the session where the senators across party lines paid tributes to his service.

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele said Ezea’s death came as a shock and silenced a respected voice in the Red Chamber.

He described the late senator as measured in speech, firm in conviction and committed to national unity, noting that his contributions to plenary debates and committee assignments reflected diligence and respect for differing opinions.

Bamidele said Ezea prioritised the welfare of his constituents and national interest, adding that he maintained cordial relationships across party and regional divides.

The Senate Leader also highlighted Ezea’s contributions outside the legislature, including serving as Chairman of the Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo, Taraba State, and on several public and private boards.

He recalled that the late Ezea sponsored several legislative initiatives, including the Agricultural Research Council Act (Amendment) Bill aimed at establishing a Federal College of Agriculture, a Constitution Alteration Bill proposing the creation of Adada State in the Southeast, and a motion for the establishment of a military base in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area to boost security.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio said the late lawmaker’s death was a loss to the Senate and the country.

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He welcomed Ezea’s family to the chamber and assured them of the Senate’s support.

Several senators also paid tributes, describing him as dedicated, intellectually sound and committed to public service.

Enyinnaya Abaribe (Abia South) said Ezea was widely respected in his constituency and within the South-East caucus.

Victor Umeh (Anambra Central) said the late senator sought medical treatment both in Nigeria and abroad before his death.

He added that Ezea studied Political Science at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), obtained law and Master’s degrees from the University of Lagos (UNILAG), and defended his PhD thesis shortly before his death.

Ireti Kingibe (FCT) described him as principled and independent-minded, while Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) said he related with colleagues across religious and ethnic lines.

Garba Maidoki (Kebbi South) highlighted Ezea’s contributions to Nigeria’s oil and gas sector and his private-sector experience.

The Senate suspended proceedings in his honour and observed valedictory rites in line with parliamentary tradition.

In his closing remarks, Bamidele said Ezea’s service and commitment to integrity should serve as a guide for public office holders. (The Nation)