Nsukka Defender Passes: NJF Mourns Senator Okey Ezea, Describes Him as Rare Gem
The Nsukka Journalists Forum (NJF) has expressed deep shock over the sudden death of Senator Okechukwu Nzeogwu Ezea, popularly known as Ideke, who represented Enugu North Senatorial District in the 10th Senate until his passing.
In a statement signed by the Chairman, Benson Whyte Ezugwu, and Secretary, Felix Oguejiofor Abugu, the Forum described the late senator as a dependable ally, a visionary leader, and an unwavering voice for the Nsukka Cultural Zone.
NJF said the news of Senator Ezea’s death came as “the most shocking and saddening development in recent times,” noting that the late lawmaker had maintained a strong relationship with the group and consistently identified with its vision for a greater Nsukka.
The Forum recalled that Senator Ezea was the Chief Guest of Honour at the 2025 NJF Annual Convention held on October 2 at Jerry Mariot Hotel, Nsukka, though he was represented by Hon. Ikechukwu Ezeugwu. According to NJF, his goodwill message on that occasion radiated optimism and offered renewed hope for robust legislative representation for Nsukka.
The group stated that nothing in his message suggested that the senator was close to the “inevitable journey to the Great Beyond,” stressing that his death has created a void that would be difficult to fill.
NJF hailed Senator Ezea as a man who “ran the good race for God and his people,” adding that he remained a strong torchbearer for Nsukka throughout his public and private life. It noted that from the establishment of his thriving Ideke Shipping Lines to the central themes of his political campaigns since 2007, the late senator was consistently driven by a passion to uplift the Nsukka person socially, politically and economically.
“Today, both the land and people of the Nsukka Zone are no longer pushovers, and Ideke’s sacrifices form an integral part of that transformation,” the Forum stated.
Describing him as “a great man, rare gem and patriotic Nigerian,” the body said Senator Ezea dedicated his life to the pursuit of justice, equity and fairness for his people.
While commiserating with the bereaved family, NJF prayed for the repose of his soul and asked God to grant his loved ones the strength to bear the “irreplaceable loss.”
“Adieu, Ideke. Ladoee oooo!” the statement concluded.
EDITOR
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, as well as M.Sc Mass Communication with Second Class(Upper Division) at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is the immediate past NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
