Olayinka Reacts As Nyesom Wike Was Spotted Arriving Burial Of Sen. Barinada Mpigi In Port Harcourt
The Senior Special Adviser on Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, Lere Olayinka, has confirmed his principal’s arrival in Port Harcourt for the burial activities of the late Senator Barinada Mpigi, describing the visit as part of final respects being paid to the deceased lawmaker.
Olayinka shared the update on his official X account, alongside photographs showing Wike’s arrival at the Port Harcourt International Airport in the company of other political figures and close associates.
The late Senator Barinada Mpigi, who previously served in the Rivers State House of Assembly before becoming a federal lawmaker representing the Eleme/Tai/Oyigbo constituency, is scheduled to be laid to rest in April 2026 following his death in February of the same year.
His passing has drawn widespread reactions across the political landscape, with tributes pouring in from colleagues, associates, and political leaders who worked closely with him during his years in public service.
The burial arrangements have also attracted a wide array of dignitaries from different political backgrounds, reflecting his influence and relationships beyond party lines.
Among those in attendance is the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who is also a former governor of Rivers State.
His presence at the funeral events underscores the close personal and political relationship he shared with the late senator, who was widely regarded as one of his allies and confidants during his time in office.
According to Olayinka, Wike’s visit to Port Harcourt is part of the ongoing burial programme, which began earlier in Abuja before moving to Rivers State for subsequent ceremonies, including a night of tribute and final rites.
“FCT minister, Nyesom Wike, arrives in Port Harcourt ahead of the burial ceremonies of Senator Barinada Mpigi, which started in Abuja yesterday. Night of tribute will hold in Port Harcourt today.”
Photographs shared from the scene showed the minister alongside other prominent personalities shortly after arriving in Port Harcourt, as preparations intensified for the final farewell ceremonies of the late lawmaker.
