By Joyce Remi- Babayeju
The FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has announced a sum N500 million support fund for the family of late Senator Barinada Barry Mpigi.
He said the fund, raised by the Rivers State Rainbow Coalition, would be used to set up a foundation to support the family and preserve the senator’s legacy.
Wike announced this on Thursday at a Night of Tribute in Port Harcourt, adding that political associates must go beyond condolences and provide tangible support to the deceased’s family.
“Forming burial committees is not enough. We must not abandon the family he left behind,” he said.
Wike described the late lawmaker as a loyal and dependable ally who stood firm during difficult political times, whose contributions helped to stabilise politics in Rivers State.
He further highlighted Mpigi’s role in advancing development in Ogoni, including efforts toward establishing the Federal University of Environment and Technology.
Tributes poured in from political leaders across party lines, who described Mpigi as a committed statesman and bridge-builder.
Former senator and Rivers elder statesman, Magnus Abe, said the late lawmaker’s contributions would remain enduring as a footprint in the sand of Niherian politics.
Colleagues in the Senate praised his dedication, work ethic and commitment to national development.
Senator Mpigi died on February 19, 2026, and is remembered as a grassroots mobiliser and public servant.
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