SENATOR Barinada Mpigi, who represented Rivers South-East Senatorial District in the 10th National Assembly, has passed away at the age of 64.
His death was confirmed today, February 19, 2026, following a brief illness.
Mpigi’s legislative career at the federal level spanned more than a decade, during which he built a reputation as an active and influential lawmaker.
Until his death, he served as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, overseeing legislative matters related to federal road infrastructure and other public works projects.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara expressed deep shock and sorrow over the senator’s passing.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, the governor described Mpigi as a brother, a seasoned politician, and one of the prominent figures in Rivers State politics.
He noted that the lawmaker’s death came at a time when his leadership and experience were still highly valuable to the state.
The governor offered prayers for the peaceful repose of Mpigi’s soul and extended condolences to his family, the people of Rivers South-East Senatorial District, and members of the Senate.
He urged them to find comfort in the impactful life the late senator lived.
Mpigi began his federal legislative journey in the House of Representatives, where he served two terms from 2011 to 2019, representing the Eleme/Tai/Oyigbo Federal Constituency.
He was elected to the Senate in 2019 and returned for a second term in 2023.
A longstanding member of the Peoples Democratic Party, Mpigi was regarded as a strong advocate for infrastructure development and constituency empowerment in Rivers State.
In recent political developments, there were indications of his growing closeness to the All Progressives Congress, though he maintained influence across party lines.
A native of Tai Local Government Area and a member of the Ogoni ethnic group, Mpigi was widely known for his educational support initiatives, including scholarship and postgraduate grant programmes aimed at creating opportunities for young people in his district.
