The Member representing Aninri, Awgu and Oji-River Federal Constituency, Hon. Engr. Anayo Onwuegbu, on Friday, February 13, 2026, joined family members, colleagues and eminent Nigerians at Itchi, Igbo Eze South Local Government Area of Enugu State, to pay his final respects to the late Distinguished Senator Okechukwu Cleophas Ezea, who passed away on November 18, 2025, at the age of 62.
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Hon. Onwuegbu attended the solemn Funeral Mass held at the late senator’s residence, where the Catholic Bishop of Nsukka Diocese, Most Rev. Prof. Dr. Godfrey Igwebuike Onah, officiated. In his homily, the Bishop emphasized the fleeting nature of life and called on leaders to uphold integrity, courage and selfless service, virtues that characterized the life and public service of the deceased.
During the ceremony, Hon. Onwuegbu expressed deep sadness over the loss of Senator Ezea, describing him as a principled legislator, courageous leader and committed servant of the people.
He noted that the late senator’s contributions to legislative governance and national development would remain enduring and impactful.
“Senator Ezea was a man of integrity and deep conviction whose dedication to democratic values and the welfare of his constituents was unwavering. His legacy of service will continue to inspire present and future leaders,” Hon. Onwuegbu stated.
The burial ceremony attracted several distinguished personalities, including the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah; the Deputy Governor, Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai; former presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi; as well as serving and former lawmakers and political leaders from across the country.
Other dignitaries present included, Chief Nnia Nwodo, Senator Osita Izunaso; Hon. Prof. Paul Sunday Nnamchi, Hon. Sunday Cyriacus Umeha, Rt. Hon. Chijioke Edeoga; Rt. Hon. Toby Okechukwu; Rt. Hon. Offor Chukwuegbo; Hon. Ikeje Asogwa; Chief John Nwodo; Senator Victor Umeh; Senator Okey Ezea; and the Senior Special Assistant to the Senate President on Media (Commissioning of Projects), Mr. Jackson Udom, among others.
Their presence underscored the high regard in which the late senator was held.
Until his passing, Senator Ezea was an active member of the 10th Senate. He served as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, and later as Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Housing and Urban Development. At the time of his demise, he was Vice Chairman of both the Senate Committee on Cooperation and Integration in Africa and NEPAD, and the Senate Committee on Culture and Creative Economy.
Following the Funeral Mass, Hon. Onwuegbu joined the family and other dignitaries for the interment at the late senator’s family compound in Itchi. As the casket was lowered into the grave amid prayers and solemn hymns, he offered his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and the people of Igbo Eze South.
Hon. Onwuegbu prayed for the peaceful repose of the soul of the departed senator and for strength and comfort for his family during this difficult time.