Senator Okey Ezea, representing Enugu North Senatorial District, has died. The lawmaker, popularly known as Ideke, reportedly passed away on Tuesday while receiving medical treatment in the United Kingdom.

An elder statesman and close associate, Chief Nkem Ossai, confirmed the development, describing the late senator as “a man with a heart of gold” whose death has thrown Nsukka and the entire Enugu North zone into deep mourning.

According to him, residents and political supporters were shocked by the news, particularly because Senator Ezea had shown signs of full recovery after suffering a partial stroke three months ago.

“It’s a sad day. Nsukka is in mourning. Enugu North has lost a dedicated son who worked tirelessly for the progress and restoration of the zone. The atmosphere has been sombre since the news broke,” Ossai said, noting that the senator’s passing is a major blow to the political landscape of the state.

Until his death, Senator Ezea was the only Labour Party member from Enugu State remaining in the National Assembly, following the defection of other lawmakers to the All Progressives Congress (APC).