Wike Visits Mpigi’s Family in London

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Thursday led a group of Rivers State political leaders to London to condole with the family of late Senator Barinada Mpigi, who represented Rivers South-East Senatorial District and died last week at the age of 64 after a brief illness.

The visit took place at the residence of the senator’s wife, Patricia Mpigi, and their children.

Wike described the late lawmaker as a loyal associate and a strong force in Rivers State politics. He said Mpigi’s death was painful not only to the Ogoni people and Rivers State but also to the country.

According to him, the senator was known for standing firmly with his friends and remaining committed to political alliances over the years.

The minister explained that he came to London as part of a delegation sent by leaders of Rivers State who wished to identify with the family during their period of mourning.

He mentioned that some senior leaders could not travel due to their age and asked that the delegation represent them before the family returns to Nigeria.

Wike recalled his long relationship with Mpigi, stating that they worked together from their days in local government politics and maintained close ties over time.

He said the late senator played a major role in shaping political events in the state and was respected among his colleagues for his consistency and loyalty.

The minister also spoke about the efforts made during the senator’s illness and said there had been hope that he would recover.

He noted that death comes at a time no one expects and added that the loss remains hard to accept for many of his associates.

Wike assured the widow and children that the Rivers political family would not abandon them. He pledged support for the family and promised that the late senator would be given a proper burial. He said the leaders would play their part to honour Mpigi’s memory.

Those who accompanied the minister on the visit included his sons, Jordan and Joaquin, the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, Senators Magnus Abe, Allwell Onyesoh and Olaka Nwogu, as well as the Rivers State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Aaron Chukwuemeka.

Others in the delegation were Felix Nweke, Kenneth Chikere and Hon. Dum Deekor.
In her response, Patricia Mpigi expressed gratitude to Wike and the delegation for their support and presence in London during the difficult time. She thanked them for standing with her family following her husband’s passing.

The condolence visit formed part of ongoing efforts by political leaders from Rivers State to pay respects to the late senator and offer support to his family ahead of burial arrangements.