Ruth NWORIE
Tributes have continued to pour in following the death of the Senator representing Rivers South-East Senatorial District, Barry Mpigi, with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dakuku Peterside, expressing deep grief over his passing.
Governor Fubara described the late lawmaker as a brother and consummate politician whose contributions to Rivers State would not be forgotten. Senator Mpigi, who also served as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, reportedly died at the age of 64.
In a tribute, the governor said the senator’s death came at a critical time when his experience and services were still needed, noting that he remained one of the leading figures in the state’s political landscape.
Fubara commiserated with the immediate family of the deceased, the people of Rivers South-East Senatorial District and members of the Senate, urging them to take solace in what he described as a fulfilled and impactful life.
Also mourning the late senator, Dakuku Peterside expressed profound sadness over the loss, describing Mpigi as a committed public servant whose contributions to the development of Rivers State and the Niger Delta would remain indelible.
“I received with profound sadness the news of the passing of my friend and brother, Senator Barry Mpigi. His death is a painful loss not only to Rivers South-East Senatorial District, but to Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole,” Peterside said.
He noted that the late senator was a grassroots politician who maintained strong ties with his constituents and demonstrated dedication to the ideals of representative democracy.
Peterside further highlighted Mpigi’s passion for public service, humility and commitment to the welfare of his people, qualities he said distinguished him during his time in the Senate and in previous public engagements.
He extended condolences to the Mpigi family, the Rivers State Government, and colleagues of the deceased in the National Assembly, praying for strength for those affected by the loss.
Senator Mpigi’s death has continued to draw reactions from political leaders and stakeholders across Rivers State and beyond, marking the end of what many have described as a notable journey in public service.
