African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, Peter Obi, has paid an emotional tribute to the late Distinguished Senator Okechukwu Ezea, describing him as a true servant of the people who placed humanity above personal ambition.
Obi spoke on Saturday after attending Ezea’s funeral in Nsukka, Enugu State, where political leaders, clergy and community members gathered to honour the former lawmaker’s life and legacy.
In a heartfelt message, Obi said Ezea stood out from the moment they met in politics. According to him, the late senator remained unwavering in his commitment to the welfare of the people of Nsukka throughout their political journey together.
Obi recalled a striking habit that reflected Ezea’s character. “If you gave him a sachet of pure water, he would always ask, ‘Where is the one for the people of Nsukka? Where is the one for humanity?’” he said.
The former Anambra State governor noted that the Bishop of the Nsukka Diocese, Most Rev. Igwebuike Ona, echoed similar sentiments during his homily. The bishop revealed that Ezea repeatedly expressed his desire for peace, progress and unity in his senatorial zone, even stating that he would willingly step aside from office if it would advance those goals.
Obi described Ezea as a politician who understood that leadership was about service, not status. He said the late senator’s humility and willingness to sacrifice personal position for the collective good distinguished him in Nigeria’s political landscape.
“May God Almighty, who has called him home, grant him eternal rest, comfort his family and all of us who mourn him, and inspire his people with his legacy,” Obi prayed.
Ezea’s passing has left a vacuum in Nsukka politics, but tributes at his funeral reflected a shared belief that his values of unity, service and compassion will endure.
