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…Announces N500m support
From Tony John, Port Harcourt
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that political associates must stand firmly by the family of late Senator Barinada Barry Mpigi.
He also announced a N500 million support fund by the Rivers State Rainbow Coalition to sustain his legacy.
Speaking at a Night of Tributes in Port Harcourt on Thursday, Wike stressed that beyond tributes, practical support for the deceased’s family is paramount.
“Forming committees for burial is not enough. We must show clearly that we will not abandon the family he left behind,” he said.
Wike, accompanied by other political leaders, described Mpigi as a fearless and dependable ally who stood firm during difficult political moments.
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“When we had challenges, Barry was always there. One morning, he told me, ‘No matter the situation, I will never leave you,’” Wike recalled emotionally.
He also listed Mpigi’s contributions to the Ogoni people, particularly his role in facilitating the establishment of the Federal University of Environment and Technology, Ogoni.
Wike said the N500 million intervention would fund a foundation to provide long-term support for the family and preserve the late lawmaker’s legacy.
Political leaders across party lines paid tributes, including a chieftain of APC, Tony Okocha, who described Mpigi as a consummate, gentle politician, while the Chairman of the Rivers State Elders Forum, Senator Magnus Abe, said his death created a vacuum difficult to fill.
Family members also paid glowing tributes. His younger brother, Monday Douglas Mpigi, described him as the rock of the family, who believed in people and supported many.
Other speakers, including Senators Osita Ngwu and Allwell Onyesoh, commended his dedication. They described him as result-driven, resilient and deeply committed to development.
