Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, broke down in tears on Thursday as he paid tribute to the late Senator Barinada Barry Mpigi at a Night of Tribute held in Port Harcourt.
Wike described the late lawmaker as a loyal and dependable ally who stood firmly by him during difficult political moments. He recalled their close relationship and the senator’s unwavering support over the years.
In a now-viral video, recounting one of their encounters, Wike said Mpigi would often visit him early in the morning to show solidarity, adding that on one occasion, he said, “Master, I will not leave you.”
The minister stressed that beyond paying glowing tributes, associates must provide tangible support to the family of the deceased. He announced a N500 million support fund by the Rivers State Rainbow Coalition to sustain Mpigi’s legacy.
“Forming committees for burial is not enough. We must show clearly that we will not abandon the family he left behind,” he said.
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Wike, who attended the event alongside his wife, Justice Eberechi Wike, and other political leaders, said the late senator remained steadfast when others faltered, contributing to political stability and representation in Rivers State.
“When we had political challenges, Barry was always coming to my house to show solidarity and commitment. One day, he came very early in the morning, he looked at me and said, master, no matter the situation, I will never leave you,” Wike said, while fighting tears.
He also praised Mpigi’s contributions to the Ogoni people, particularly his role in the establishment of the Federal University of Environment and Technology, Ogoni.
Wike added that the N500 million intervention would be used to establish a foundation for the family, aimed at providing long-term support and preserving the legacy of the late senator.