The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has described the late Senator Barinada Mpigi as a steadfast political ally and loyal friend, as he led a high-powered delegation from Rivers State to London to condole with the bereaved family.
Senator Mpigi, who represented Rivers South-East Senatorial District, passed away on February 19, 2026, at the age of 64 following a brief illness.
Speaking during the visit to the family, including the senator’s widow, Patricia Mpigi, Wike said the loss was deeply painful not only to Rivers State, but to Nigeria as a whole.
“Your husband was a strong pillar in the politics of Rivers State. When he says he is your friend, he is your friend. He stands by his friends through thick and thin,” Wike was quoted as saying.
The former Rivers governor assured the family that the state’s political leadership would remain supportive and ensure the late lawmaker receives a befitting burial.
“We are here as a delegation sent by the leader of Rivers State. We will not forget Bari. We will play our part and stand by you,” he added.
The delegation included the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, Senators Magnus Abe, Allwell Onyesoh and Olaka Nwogu, as well as the state chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Aaron Chukwuemeka, among other party leaders.
Wike’s sons, Jordan and Joaquin, were also present.
Responding on behalf of the family, Mrs. Mpigi expressed gratitude for the visit and the solidarity shown during the difficult period.
Mpigi served in the 10th National Assembly and previously represented his constituency in the House of Representatives for two terms between 2011 and 2019.
As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, he played a visible role in infrastructure oversight and legislative interventions.
A native of Tai Local Government Area in the Ogoni region of Rivers State, he was widely regarded within the PDP for his grassroots mobilisation and commitment to development initiatives.
Tributes have continued to pour in from political leaders across party lines, including Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who described the late senator as a consummate politician and a leading light in the state’s political landscape.
Mpigi’s death marks the end of a political career that spanned over a decade in federal legislative service, leaving behind a legacy of loyalty and influence within Rivers politics.
