Reactions have trailed the absence of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, at the Night of Tributes held in honour of the late Senator Barinada Barry Mpigi in Port Harcourt.
The governor’s reported absence from the event has stirred mixed comments among Rivers indigenes and political observers, with differing opinions on whether his presence was expected as a matter of protocol or personal discretion.
In a statement, media personality Vicky Thompson argued that the governor, as the Chief Executive of Rivers State, does not require an official invitation to attend the burial rites of a serving senator from his state. He noted that attendance at such events is generally considered a duty of office and a mark of respect, rather than a formal invitation-based engagement.
He added that the funerals of high-ranking public officials, such as senators, are often treated as state or quasi-state events, where governors are typically expected to attend in solidarity, regardless of political differences.
However, not all reactions agreed with that view. Ephraim Ndubike questioned the criticisms, suggesting that the deceased senator may not have shown similar recognition during his lifetime and that respect should be mutual.
Godspower Ibinabo defended the governor’s absence, arguing that he may not have been officially invited and linking the situation to ongoing political tensions in the state. He also claimed that competing burial arrangements, including that of a traditional ruler in Opobo Kingdom scheduled around the same period, may have influenced attendance decisions by key political figures.
Another commentator, CG Echendu, also questioned the expectations placed on the governor, asking whether he should abandon a royal burial to attend the senator’s funeral events.
Leo UD Tom, however, criticized the governor’s absence, stating that condolence visits and official sympathies are fundamental responsibilities of leadership, especially for a prominent political figure. He described the situation as disappointing, arguing that public office demands prompt emotional and official acknowledgement in moments of bereavement.
Similarly, Amb Opeks praised former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for his consistent engagement in state matters, while also alleging political tensions between key actors in the state as a backdrop to the controversy.
Senator Mpigi, who passed away in the United Kingdom, is expected to be laid to rest in his hometown on Saturday.
