The Nigerian Senate has been thrown into mourning following the death of Barinada Mpigi, the lawmaker representing Rivers South-East Senatorial District, who passed away at the age of 64 after a brief illness.

A source within the National Assembly disclosed that the senator died on Thursday, sending shockwaves across the 10th National Assembly. His death was announced during plenary proceedings, casting a sombre mood over lawmakers who had gathered for budget defence sessions.

Until his demise, Mpigi served as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, one of the most strategic committees in the upper chamber. The committee oversees federal road infrastructure and public works projects across Nigeria, placing him at the centre of legislative efforts aimed at improving the nation’s transport network.

A Distinguished Legislative Career

Mpigi began his federal legislative career in 2011 when he was elected into the House of Representatives. He was re-elected in 2016 before securing a Senate seat in 2019 on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party to represent Rivers South-East.

During the 9th Assembly, he chaired a joint Senate committee set up to investigate crude oil theft in the Niger Delta, a critical assignment at a time Nigeria faced declining oil revenues and widespread pipeline vandalism.

Lawmakers Pay Tribute

Tributes poured in from colleagues in both chambers. Lawmakers observed a minute’s silence in his honour, praying for the repose of his soul.

Mpigi’s death comes barely three months after the passing of Okey Ezea, deepening concerns over the recent loss of serving members in the current Assembly.

His passing marks a significant loss to the Senate and the people of Rivers South-East.