By Stanley Onyekwere
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has described the late Senator Barinada Barry Mpigi as a politician of exceptional consistency and integrity.
Speaking at a Night of Tributes held Wednesday at the Bola Tinubu International Conference Centre, Wike reflected on a friendship spanning decades, beginning from their days as local government chairmen in Rivers State. He lauded the late lawmaker for possessing a level of reliability he described as increasingly rare in the Nigerian political landscape.
In particular, the Minister underscored several defining qualities that made Senator Mpigi a standout figure.
He noted that unlike many in politics, Mpigi was never “double-minded” or inconsistent in his dealings.
Also, he described the late Senator as someone who followed through on his promises without hesitation.
“He was a very reliable and dependable politician whom you could count on,” Wike stated, emphasizing the trust they shared.
Urging Nigerians to prioritize making a difference, Wike noted that while the Senator’s life was cut short, it was a life well-lived.
“We do not know when the time will come. What matters is the impact we make while we are here,” the Minister stated.
In a show of solidarity, Wike assured the bereaved family of his continued support, promising they would not be abandoned.
The event, which drew a wide spectrum of Nigeria’s political elite, also featured a significant announcement from the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi.
He revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed a section of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to be rerouted through Ogoniland as a permanent mark of respect for the late Senator’s contributions to national infrastructure.
