By David Okoh
The member representing Ezeagu/Udi Federal Constituency of Enugu State, Hon. Emeka Cyriacus has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Senator Okechukwu Ezea, describing him as a committed leader, mentor, and fearless advocate for the people.
According to Hon. Cyriacus, Senator Ezea was a man who believed strongly in a cause and gave everything to it until the very end.
“He fought to the last. Unfortunately, at a time when we needed him so much, we lost him,” he said.
Hon. Cyriacus recalled their shared journey in the Labour Party, noting that Senator Ezea played a pivotal leadership role at a time when the political environment in Enugu State was overwhelmingly dominated by the PDP.
“At a time when Enugu was completely PDP, we were written off and denied opportunities. But with his experience, guidance, and mentorship—especially for those of us who are younger—we were able to achieve remarkable results in the last election,” he stated.
He highlighted the party’s electoral success as evidence of Senator Ezea’s political impact, citing the emergence of seven out of eight House of Representatives members, two out of three senators from Enugu State, and 14 House of Assembly members out of 24.
“This tells you the level of political contribution he made,” Hon. Cyriacus said.
Beyond electoral victories, he described the late senator as a passionate lawmaker who never compromised when it came to issues affecting his people.
“On the floor of the Senate, whenever it came to matters concerning his people, he propagated them, advocated for them, and went all out to ensure they were actualized.”
He described Senator Ezea’s death as a personal loss and a national tragedy.
“This is a big loss, not only to me personally, but to all sons and daughters of Nigeria. We have lost a man we needed at a time when our country is in desperate need of good leaders.”
Commenting on concerns raised at the Senate regarding the late senator’s children—some of whom are graduates yet to be employed
—Hon. Cyriacus called for collective responsibility.
“This is the time to be a brother’s keeper,” he said. “One of his enduring legacies is the children he left behind. The fact that he is no longer with us should not mean abandonment.”
He urged the Senate, colleagues, and associates of the late lawmaker to rally around the family and provide tangible support, including employment opportunities for those qualified.
“We must make genuine contributions and ensure the family feels that although their father is gone, he left behind good friends who truly care.”
Reacting to the saying that “the best tree in the forest does not last,” Hon. Cyriacus offered a reflective perspective.
“At times, that may seem true, but it is not always the case. Some good trees last very long, while others are cut down too early. Life has a way of unfolding differently in different situations.”
