The Enugu North Coalition for Purposeful Representation has called on Bishop Oscar Ossai to offer himself for service as the next senator representing Enugu North Senatorial District, describing him as the most suitable figure to sustain the legacy of the late Okey Ezea.
In a strongly worded press statement signed by its Secretary General, Dr. Joseph Idoko, and made available to journalists, the coalition said the district was at a defining moment following the death of Senator Ezea, insisting that the vacuum created by his passing must be filled by a leader with “character, capacity, and credibility.”
The group described the late senator as “a symbol of integrity, courage, and principled leadership,” whose commitment to justice, equity, and the advancement of the people of Enugu North left an enduring legacy.
“In this solemn moment of reflection and collective mourning over the passing of our distinguished son and former Senator, Late Senator Okey Ezea, the people of Enugu North Senatorial District remain united in grief, yet resolute in purpose,” the statement read.
According to the coalition, Senator Ezea’s contributions to the district transcended politics and represented a model of selfless service that should not be abandoned.
“The late Senator Ezea was not merely a political figure; he was a symbol of integrity, courage, and principled leadership. His commitment to justice, equity, and the advancement of our people set a standard that must not only be preserved but advanced,” the coalition stated.
It added that the district now faces “the responsibility of sustaining that legacy through worthy and capable representation.”
The coalition disclosed that it embarked on what it described as “extensive consultations” involving elders, professionals, youth leaders, and critical stakeholders across communities in Enugu North before arriving at its position.
According to the statement, the consultations were driven by a singular concern: identifying a leader capable of continuing the vision of purposeful representation associated with the late senator.
“These engagements have been guided by one central question: Who possesses the character, capacity, and credibility to carry forward the vision of purposeful representation?” the coalition said.
“From these consultations, one name has consistently emerged with remarkable unanimity—Bishop Oscar Ossai.”
The group praised Bishop Ossai for what it called his longstanding record of integrity, disciplined leadership, and dedication to humanity, stressing that his background and service credentials distinguish him from conventional political actors.
“Bishop Ossai’s life and work reflect a rare combination of moral authority, disciplined leadership, and unwavering dedication to the people,” the statement declared.
“Over the years, he has demonstrated a consistent commitment to service, integrity in conduct, and a deep understanding of the social and developmental challenges facing our communities.”
The coalition further emphasized that the cleric’s reputation was built on “a lifetime of principled engagement and impact” rather than political opportunism.
“His pedigree is not defined by political expediency, but by a lifetime of principled engagement and impact,” it added.
While acknowledging that public office comes with enormous responsibility, the coalition argued that moments of political transition often require leaders motivated by duty rather than personal ambition.
“We are mindful that the call to public office is not one to be taken lightly. However, at defining moments such as this, leadership must rise not from personal ambition, but from a higher sense of duty,” the statement noted.
“It is our considered position that the prevailing circumstances in Enugu North constitute such a moment.”
The coalition therefore made a direct appeal to Bishop Ossai to answer what it described as a collective call from the people of the district.
“Accordingly, we respectfully and earnestly urge Bishop Oscar Ossai to heed this collective call and offer himself for service as the next Senator representing Enugu North Senatorial District,” the statement said.
It expressed confidence that his emergence would inspire public trust and improve the quality of leadership and political engagement in the district.
“We believe that his entry into the race will not only inspire confidence among the electorate but also elevate the quality of discourse and leadership in this critical period,” the coalition stated.
The group also pointed to what it described as the symbolic significance of Bishop Ossai sharing roots with the late Senator Ezea, saying the development could help preserve continuity in representation and governance.
“Furthermore, Bishop Ossai’s roots in the same community as our late Senator present a unique and symbolic opportunity for continuity and honor,” the coalition stressed.
“It offers our people a chance to consolidate and complete the vision initiated by Senator Ezea, ensuring that the sacrifices and aspirations tied to his service are not left unfulfilled.”
Describing its appeal as more than a political movement, the coalition said the call was inspired by history, conscience, and the desire to ensure stability and equitable representation in Enugu North.
“This is not merely a political appeal—it is a call anchored in history, guided by conscience, and driven by the shared desire for stability, equity, and purposeful representation,” the statement added.
The coalition further appealed to political stakeholders, community leaders, and residents of the district to unite behind what it termed a noble cause.
“We therefore call on all well-meaning sons and daughters of Enugu North, across party lines and interests, to support this noble cause as we seek to uphold the legacy of integrity and progress that our dear district deserves,” it said.
The statement concluded with a rallying call underscoring the urgency of the moment and the need for visionary leadership.
“History beckons. Duty calls. The moment demands a leader who embodies both.”