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By Lizzy Chirkpi
The Nigerian Senate has once again been thrown into mourning following the death of Barinada Mpigi, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, who passed away at the age of 64.
While there has been no official statement from either his family or the Senate as of press time, a reliable source confirmed the development, noting that details surrounding the circumstances of his death remain unclear.
Until his passing, Mpigi represented the Rivers South-East Senatorial District in the National Assembly. News of his demise has reverberated across the Senate and political circles in Rivers State, where he was widely respected for his influence and years of service.
His death adds to the growing list of losses recorded by the 10th Senate. In recent months, the upper chamber also mourned the passing of Godiya Akwashiki from Nasarawa State as well as another serving senator from Nigeria’s South-East region, Senator Ifeanyi Uba from Anambra State further deepening the sense of grief within the Assembly.
Born on June 23, 1961, Mpigi’s political career at the federal level began in 2011 when he was elected to the House of Representatives. He later secured a second term in 2016, consolidating his presence in the Green Chamber.
In 2019, he won election to the Senate under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, marking a new chapter in his legislative journey. His move to the Red Chamber elevated his role in shaping national policy, particularly on issues affecting the Niger Delta.
During the Ninth Assembly, Mpigi chaired a special joint Senate committee tasked with investigating crude oil theft in the Niger Delta, placing him at the forefront of efforts to address revenue losses and economic sabotage in the oil-rich region.
As head of the Senate Committee on Works, he supervised key federal infrastructure projects, including major road constructions across the country. Fellow lawmakers often described him as a committed and forthright legislator who consistently pressed for accountability and quality in public works.
Condolences have continued to pour in from colleagues and political leaders, who have praised his dedication to public service and his contributions to both Rivers State and Nigeria.
The Senate is expected to formally announce his passing and carry out official proceedings in honour of the late lawmaker.