Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Thursday, announced a N500 million support by the Rivers Rainbow Coalition to the family of late Senator Barinada Mpigi.
Wike disclosed this in Port Harcourt, while speaking at a Night of Tribute in honour of the late senator, fondly called Barry, who died on February 19 after a brief illness.
Wike, in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Mr Lere Olayinka, explained that the N500 million will be used to establish a foundation for the family.
This, according to him, will provide long-term support and preserve the legacy of the late lawmaker.
The minister urged the political associates of the late senator who represented Rivers South-East at the Senate, to stand firmly by his family.
He stressed that beyond glowing tributes, practical support for the deceased’s family was paramount.
“Forming committees for burial is not enough. We must show clearly that we will not abandon the family he left behind,” Wike said.
He described the late senator as a fearless and dependable ally, who stood firm during difficult political moments, noting that “true character is revealed in times of adversity”.
According to him, Mpigi remained loyal when others faltered and contributed significantly to political stability and effective representation in Rivers.
“When we had political challenges, Barry, as he was fondly called, was always coming to my house to show solidarity and commitment.
Wike also eulogised the commitment of Mpigi to the Ogoni people, narrating the roles he played in ensuring the establishment of the Federal University of Environment and Technology, Ogoni.
Leaders from different political parties also described Mpigi as a “committed statesman, bridge-builder and loyal party man” whose death has created a major vacuum in Rivers politics.
Mr Tony Okocha, who spoke on behalf of the All Progressives Congress in the state, described the late senator as a “consummate politician, gentle, friendly” and deeply committed to the growth of the party.
He added that Mpigi’s passing was a painful loss to the political family.
Also, Sen. Magnus Abe, former Chairman, Rivers Elders Forum, who was visibly emotional, said the late lawmaker’s impact would remain indelible.
“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 and Nigeria will never be forgotten,” Abe said.
He noted that many developmental strides in Ogoni land bore the imprint of the late senator, adding that generations yet unborn would remember him for his sacrifices.
Similarly, Ambassador-Designate, Republic of Ireland, Chief Onueze Okocha (SAN), described Mpigi as a “patriotic” Rivers man, acknowledging the roles he played in ensuring the Senate’s confirmation of his appointment as an ambassador.
The Chairman, Rivers Elders Council, Ferdinand Alabraba, described Mpigi as a “seasoned lawmaker and a voice of reason”.
“Barry’s demise leaves a vacuum that will not be easily filled. He was humble, firm in conviction and generous in spirit.
“His life was a testament to service to his constituents, Rivers and Nigeria,” he said.
On his part, Mr Monday Mpigi, Registrar, Federal University of Technology, Tai, and younger brother of the deceased, described the Mpigi 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 added.
Other speakers at the event described Mpigi as a “grassroots mobiliser and committed public servant” whose legacy of service, loyalty and generosity continues to resonate among Rivers people irrespective of political party affiliation and community.
NAN