09/04/2026
A Tribute to Senator Barinnada Mpigi, PhD
1962 – 2026
Some men pass through life quietly, leaving only faint traces behind them. Others, by the strength of their character, courage, and determination, leave footprints so deep that time itself cannot easily erase them. Senator Barinnada Mpigi belonged to the latter category. His life, though painfully brief, was rich in service, courage, and accomplishment. Like the brightest stars in the firmament, whose brilliance often burns intensely for only a short time, his life radiated extraordinary energy, commitment, and purpose before fading far too soon.
In many respects, Senator Mpigi was the epitome of bravery, resilience, and political tenacity. He lived a life of uncommon dedication to his people and to the ideals of public service. Though the span of his earthly years may appear short, the depth of his achievements and the magnitude of his contributions stand as enduring testimony that his life was indeed well lived.
My personal relationship with Barinnada dates back to 1987, when my community presented me as a candidate for the chairmanship of the
Okrika/Oyigbo/Tai/Eleme Local Government Council. As tradition required, I was taken to the palace of the revered King G. N. K. Gininwa for royal endorsement. It was there that I first encountered the young Barinnada Barry
Mpigi. Even at that early stage of his life, he had already distinguished himself as one of the most courageous and devoted political foot soldiers of the King’s palace.
Senator Mpigi was among the energetic young men who stood at the forefront
of organising the King’s political activities and engagements. His zeal, discipline, and unwavering loyalty to the palace were already evident. Those early encounters laid the foundation for a relationship that endured for over 39 years. Even from the beginning, it was clear that he possessed the rare qualities
that would eventually propel him to greater heights he attained in public life.
Over the years, Senator Mpigi emerged as one of the most articulate, determined, and pragmatic politicians to come out of Rivers State, particularly from Tai Local Government Area and the larger Ogoni nation. His political journey was not accidental; it was the result of perseverance, courage, and an unyielding belief in the power of service.
Within a remarkable span of about twenty-seven years in active politics, Senator Mpigi successfully navigated the complex landscape of Nigerian
politics and held several important public offices, including:
1. Executive Chairman of Tai Local Government Area (1999–2001).
2. Commissioner for Youth Affairs, Rivers State (2007–2008).
3. Member, House of Representatives representing Eleme/Tai/Oyigbo
Federal Constituency (2011–2019).
4. Senator representing Rivers South-East Senatorial District (2019–
2026).
Each of these offices was not merely a title to him; they were platforms through which he demonstrated uncommon political prowess and commitment to the welfare of his people.
Among his many contributions, one achievement stands out prominently: the
establishment of the Federal University of Environment, Saakpenwa, in Ogoniland, through the Bill he sponsored in the Senate in 2022. This singular accomplishment represents a monumental milestone for Ogoniland and the entire Niger Delta region. Through this initiative, Senator Mpigi etched his name permanently into the educational and developmental history of our land.
Indeed, in championing this noble cause, he rose to the distinguished league of those visionary leaders who, through political will and strategic manoeuvring, facilitated the establishment of great institutions such as the University of Ibadan, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. For Ogoniland, this achievement alone stands as a crowning legacy that generations yet unborn will remember him for.
Senator Mpigi’s political mastery was also evident in the dynamics of Rivers State politics. During the turbulent period of 2015 and 2016, when intense competition among political parties, APC and PDP, was rife, his firm hold for the APC on his position as a member of the House of Representatives commanded both respect and concern among political actors, including those of us in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). His influence and strategic acumen made him a formidable figure in the state’s political landscape.
When he eventually joined the PDP before the 2019 general elections, it eased much of the tension his political strength had generated among us. His entrance into the PDP further reinforced his reputation as a pragmatic politician, a calculated strategist, and a relentless advocate for his people.
As my colleague in the National Assembly and later in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Mpigi distinguished himself as a practical leader, a man of action, determination, and tireless energy. He was a
go-getter who believed strongly that public office must deliver meaningful benefits to the people.
Today, as we reflect on his life, we are reminded of a profound truth: life is not
measured merely by the number of years one lives, but by the impact one makes within those years. Senator Barinnada Mpigi may have departed this world earlier than expected. Still, his legacy will endure in the institutions he
helped build, the lives he touched, and the hope he brought to countless constituents.
Yes, his star has dimmed sooner than we wished, but its brilliance will continue to illuminate the memories of those who knew him and the history of the land he served with unwavering dedication.
Senator Mpigi lived with purpose. He served with courage. He impacted lives and brought smiles to his constituents’ faces. In the final analysis, this is the true meaning of public service and perhaps the greatest justification for being born.
As we bid farewell to this remarkable son of Ogoniland, we do so with heavy hearts but also with gratitude for the life he lived and the legacy he leaves behind. Ladies and gentlemen, may I at this solemn moment extend my sincere condolences to his beloved wife, children, and the entire Mpigi family. May
the Almighty God, in His infinite mercy, console them and grant them the strength to bear this irreparable loss.
Adieu, Senator Barinnada Mpigi.
May your soul find eternal rest in the bosom of the Almighty, until we meet again on the other side of creation.
SEN. (CHIEF) DR. GEORGE THOMPSON SEKIBO, CON, DSSRS, JP
