Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday poured encomiums on the late Senator Mpigi Barinada Barry, describing him as a fearless patriot who lived for others and never wavered in his convictions.
Speaking at a Night of Tribute held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Wike said the late lawmaker stood tall in a political space where many often shift positions.
“I am a politician, and I have seen people say one thing in the morning and change by night. But this was a man whose position was clear and consistent. When he decided on a cause, he pursued it with everything,” Wike said.
The FCT Minister, who was visibly emotional, said Barry’s life was a lesson in purposeful living and selfless service.
“We do not know when the time will come. What matters is the impact we make while we are here. He lived a life that will be remembered,” he added, assuring that the family he left behind would not be neglected.
Wike also praised the late senator’s passion for development, especially his push for education and infrastructure that would benefit future generations.
Also paying tribute, Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, described Barry as a man of uncommon integrity whose word was his bond.
“Sometimes politicians say one thing in the morning and another in the evening, but this was a man whose ‘yes’ was yes and whose ‘no’ was no. He was consistent, loyal and committed,” Umahi said.
He revealed that the late senator played a key role in pushing major road projects across the country, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
“He was everywhere, pushing for progress. He wasn’t after money or personal gain — he was after results for Nigerians,” Umahi said.
The minister, however, expressed sadness that Barry would not live to see the completion of many projects he fought for.
“It pains me that he won’t be there when these projects are commissioned. But his legacy is already written in those roads and developments,” he said.
Umahi assured the family that the Federal Government would not abandon them or the vision of the late lawmaker.
“We will stand by the family and make sure his good works are completed,” he pledged.
In a sermon titled “Death is Not the End,” the Provincial Pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God FCT Province 1, Pastor Amos Okemuyiwa, reminded mourners that death is inevitable and comes for everyone.
“Death is a leveler it does not respect status or wealth. What matters is the life you live and the legacy you leave behind,” he said.
The event attracted top politicians, government officials and associates, all united in grief and admiration for a man they described as a bridge-builder and true servant of the people.
Late Senator Mpigi Barinada Barry, they said, may be gone but his impact will not be forgotten.
