Senate President Godswill Akpabio has expressed deep concern over the increasing number of deaths within the National Assembly in the past two years, describing the period as emotionally draining and unsettling for lawmakers.
Akpabio spoke on Tuesday at a Night of Tributes organised in honour of the late Senator representing Enugu North Senatorial District, Okechukwu Ezea. The event was held at the National Ecumenical Centre in Abuja and attended by senators, political leaders, and members of the deceased’s family.
Speaking on behalf of the 10th Senate, Akpabio said the legislature was still struggling to cope with the loss of several senators in quick succession, noting that the situation had left the institution inconsolable.
He recalled the sudden death of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah in the United Kingdom, describing it as one of the most shocking experiences for members of the Red Chamber. According to Akpabio, Ubah had travelled abroad in apparent good health and even shared a live broadcast shortly before his death was announced the following day.
Akpabio said the incident served as a reminder of the fragility of life and the limits of political power, urging lawmakers to live peacefully and remain mindful of their spiritual lives.
Describing the death of Senator Ezea as another painful blow, the Senate President noted that no lawmaker contests an election with the expectation of dying in office. He said the news of Ezea’s passing came as a shock not only to his family and community, but also to his colleagues in the Senate.
Senator Ezea, a member of the 10th Senate, died in November 2025 after a brief illness. He was widely regarded as one of the most outspoken lawmakers from the South-East and a prominent voice in the Senate.
Akpabio praised Ezea’s dedication to legislative duties, describing him as diligent, principled, and articulate in his contributions on national issues. He also conveyed the Senate’s condolences to the family, urging them to find comfort in the legacy the late senator left behind.
Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, also paid tribute, describing Ezea as a man who lived a consistent and meaningful life. Speaking directly to the senator’s children, Obi said their father’s life was one that reflected integrity and purpose.
Similarly, the Interim National Chairman of the Labour Party, Senator Nenadi Usman, highlighted Ezea’s loyalty to the party and his commitment to public service. She recalled that even hours before his death on November 18, 2025, Ezea was actively involved in party affairs, offering guidance on leadership decisions concerning Enugu State.
She described Ezea as a leader whose life demonstrated that true leadership is defined by principle, commitment, and courage, noting that he remained steadfast in the party despite pressure to defect.
The tribute ceremony ended on a sombre note, as lawmakers reflected on the growing loss within Nigeria’s legislative chamber and the reminder that political power offers no immunity from death.
