Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has described the death of Senator Barinada Mpigi, representing Rivers South-East Senatorial District, as a significant loss not only to the Ogoni people of Rivers State but to the entire nation. He praised the late senator as “a dependable ally who stood by his friends, even during trying times.”
Senator Mpigi passed away last Thursday at the age of 64 after a brief illness.
In a statement from London issued by Wike’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, the FCT Minister led a delegation of Rivers State leaders to visit the senator’s widow, Mrs. Patricia Obiageri Mpigi, and her children. Wike assured the family of the state’s support and promised a befitting burial for the late lawmaker.
Accompanying Wike were his sons, Jordan and Joaquin, Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, Senators Magnus Abe, Allwell Onyesoh, and Olaka Nwogu, as well as Rivers State PDP Chairman Aaron Chukwuemeka, and party leaders Felix Nweke, Kenneth Chikere, and Hon. Dum Deekor.
The FCT Minister recalled his personal bond with Mpigi, noting their long-standing collaboration from local council politics to state governance. He further pledged:
“We will play our own part. We will not forget Bari. We will be there with you and ensure he is accorded a befitting burial. On behalf of the leaders of Rivers State, we say take heart and remain strong.”
In response, Mrs Mpigi expressed gratitude for the visit and the continued support: “I thank you for your presence and support. All I can say is thank you. Thank you for all you have done.”
