By Ejire Folakunmi

The Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, on April 10, 2026, attended a thanksgiving service in honour of the late Senator Barinada Barry Mpigi at Beth-El Anglican Church, Koroma, Tai LGA of Rivers State.

Late Sen. Mpigi, a former colleague and associate of the governor, died recently at the age of 64.

In his remarks, Gov. Diri described the late lawmaker as a courageous, lively, and committed leader who contributed significantly to the development of his community, local government area, and the region.

He urged the family to take solace in the legacy of the deceased, noting that he lived a fulfilled life marked by service and impact.

“To the wife, children, father, and other relatives, I urge you to take comfort in the fact that Sen. Mpigi touched many lives and contributed to the growth of his community,” Diri said.

He also called on leaders and citizens to embrace humility, maintain relationships, and prioritise values beyond political office.

“As humans, we must live modest and humble lives. We should not allow temporary political positions to define us, but instead live with forgiveness and love,” he added.

The governor conveyed condolences on behalf of the government and people of Bayelsa State to the Mpigi family, the Koroma community, Tai LGA, and Rivers State.

Gov. Diri was accompanied by Sen. Friday Konbowei Benson, representing Bayelsa Central; Rt. Hon. Fred Agbedi, representing Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency; Hon. Ebizi Ndiomu-Brown, representing Sagbama Constituency 3 in the Bayelsa State House of Assembly; the Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. Alfred Kemepado; and other officials.

Other dignitaries at the service included Rt. Hon. Dum Deekor, member representing Khana/Gokana Federal Constituency; Sen. Magnus Abe, Chairman of the Board of the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC); the Deputy Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Dumle Maol; APC South-South Zonal Vice Chairman, Hon. Victor Giadom; Ambassador Desmond Akawor; and other prominent figures.

The thanksgiving service drew political leaders, associates, and community members who gathered to honour the life and legacy of the late senator.