_As Bishop Onah lauds governor for approving state burial for the deceased_
Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, on Friday, joined other well-meaning Nigerians in paying last respects to the late Senator representing Enugu North Senatorial District, Senator Okey Ezea, describing the deceased as a principled leader, who held on to his convictions till death.
Speaking during a funeral Mass in honour of the late Senator at his hometown, Itchi, Igboeze South Local Government Area of Enugu State, Mbah said Ezea’s passing was a profound loss not only to his family and constituents, but also to Enugu State as a whole.
“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,” he said.
Reflecting on the late Senator’s life, Mbah said he distinguished himself early in his career in the Nigeria Customs Service before venturing into private enterprise and eventually politics, adding that he understood the value of service and remained passionate about improving the welfare of his people throughout his public life.
“I want to agree entirely with what the Bishop said. 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.”
Consoling the late Ezea’s immediate family, he said, “You are not alone. On behalf of the government and people of Enugu State, we offer our deepest condolences and pray that God grants his soul eternal rest.”
He thanked the Church for standing by the family during their time of grief, and urged the family to find solace in the life and legacies of their late patriarch, noting that their presence of dignitaries from all walks of life at the event, reflected the respect the deceased lawmaker earned across political, religious and social lines.
In his homily, the Catholic Bishop of Nsukka Diocese, Prof. Godfrey Onah, extolled the virtues of the late senator, describing him as a selfless leader, who was driven by conviction and a deep sense of responsibility to his people.
He noted that Ezea’s courage and candour defined his public life and earned him admiration even among those who differed from him politically.
Bishop Onah also lauded Governor Mbah for approving a state burial in honour of the deceased, describing the gesture as a demonstration of leadership maturity and respect for public service.
He observed that recognising leaders who served with integrity reinforces societal values and encourages future generations to prioritise service over personal gain.
