…Says ‘We Must Not Abandon Them’
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Thursday announced a ₦500 million support fund for the family of late Senator Barinada Barry Mpigi, insisting that political allies must go beyond tributes to provide tangible assistance.
Wike made the declaration at a Night of Tribute held in Port Harcourt, where political leaders, associates, and family members gathered to honour the late lawmaker, who died on February 19, 2026.
“Forming committees for burial is not enough. We must show clearly that we will not abandon the family he left behind,” Wike said.
The minister explained that the fund, facilitated by the Rivers State Rainbow Coalition, would be used to establish a foundation to sustain the late senator’s legacy and provide long-term support for his family.
Reflecting on his personal relationship with Mpigi, Wike described him as a loyal and dependable ally who stood firm during difficult political times.
“When we had political challenges, Barry was always coming to my house to show solidarity and commitment. One day, he came very early in the morning, he looked at me and said, ‘master, no matter the situation, I will never leave you,’” he said, visibly emotional.
Wike also commended the late senator’s contributions to the Ogoni people, particularly his role in facilitating the establishment of the Federal University of Environment and Technology in Ogoni.
The tribute event drew prominent political figures across party lines, including PDP Board of Trustees Chairman Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, Senator Sandy Onor, PDP National Vice Chairman (South-South) Chief Dan Orbih, and traditional rulers led by Ohna Sergeant Chidi Awuse.
Speaking on behalf of the APC in Rivers State, Tony Okocha described Mpigi as “a consummate politician, gentle, friendly and deeply committed to the growth of the party,” adding that his death was a painful loss.
Former senator and Chairman of the Rivers State Elders Forum, Magnus Abe, said the late lawmaker’s life and legacy would endure.
“We are not gathered merely because a man has died, but because of the life he lived. Barry died at a time when his services were most needed, but his contributions to Ogoni, Rivers State and Nigeria will never be forgotten,” Abe said.
In a family tribute, the Registrar of the Federal University of Technology, Tai, and younger brother of the deceased, Monday Douglas Mpigi, described him as the backbone of the family.
“He was the rock of our family, very dependable and always there for everyone. He was a safe harbour for people’s worries and joy. He believed in people even when they did not believe in themselves,” he said.
He added that the large turnout at the event reflected the impact the late senator had on many lives.
“No wonder this hall is filled with people. Many who die do not have such a gathering because they were not there for others the way he was,” he noted.
Other speakers, including Ferdinand Alabraba, Senator Osita Ngwu, and Senator Allwell Onyesoh, described Mpigi as a dedicated lawmaker, grassroots mobiliser, and relentless advocate for development.
“What struck me was his constant drive. He was always looking for ways to get things done,” Ngwu said.
Onyesoh added, “He was a workaholic and a soldier’s soldier. I do not know how to say goodbye.”
The late senator, widely regarded as a bridge-builder and committed public servant, was remembered for his loyalty, resilience, and enduring contributions to Rivers State and Nigeria.
Dignitaries at the event urged his family and associates to uphold his values, even as prayers were offered for the repose of his soul.
