Senator Abdul Ningi has disclosed details surrounding the death of former Katsina South lawmaker Bello Mandiya, whose body was reportedly discovered in the bathroom of his Abuja residence three days after he was last seen alive.
Ningi, who represents Bauchi Central Senatorial District, told his colleagues during a Senate plenary session that Mandiya was believed to have slipped and sustained a head injury shortly after taking his bath.
The former senator, who lived alone, was found dead on Monday, September 7, 2026, following concerns raised by neighbours over his prolonged absence.
How Bello Mandiya Was Found Dead in His Abuja Home
Recounting the circumstances of the incident, Ningi explained that Mandiya was last seen around 11 am on Friday, September 4, before returning to his residence in Abuja.
According to the senator, his late colleague was preparing to attend the Muslim Friday congregational prayer when the unfortunate incident reportedly occurred.
Mandiya had reportedly arranged his personal belongings, including his cap and mobile phones, before entering the bathroom.
Ningi said the former lawmaker was believed to have fallen and hit his head after bathing.
Because he lived alone, the incident went unnoticed, and no immediate assistance was available.
Foul Smell Raises Concern Among Neighbours
Ningi disclosed that residents became suspicious after noticing an unpleasant smell coming from Mandiya’s apartment.
Concerns also grew when the chief imam of Apo observed that the former senator had not attended prayers for three consecutive days.
Mandiya was reportedly known for regularly participating in the five daily Muslim prayers, making his unexplained absence unusual.
The concerns prompted neighbours and other residents to investigate his whereabouts.
Those who went to the apartment eventually forced their way inside, where they discovered the former lawmaker’s lifeless body in the bathroom.
Ningi revealed that his son was among those who entered the residence and discovered Mandiya’s body.
The senator said he was in Saudi Arabia when his son contacted him by telephone to deliver the devastating news.
The account suggests Mandiya may have remained undiscovered for approximately 72 hours. However, the reported bathroom fall has not been independently established as the medical cause of death.
Ningi Mourns Former Colleague, Reflects on Uncertainty of Life
Speaking emotionally about the incident, Ningi described the circumstances of Mandiya’s death as deeply painful.
The Bauchi Central senator, who said he had known the deceased since 2002, reflected on how unexpectedly life could end, regardless of an individual’s position or financial standing.
He reminded his colleagues that public office, material possessions and personal achievements offered no protection against death.
Ningi also extended his condolences to Mandiya’s family, political associates and the people of Katsina State.
He prayed for Almighty Allah to forgive the deceased and grant his loved ones the strength to cope with their loss.
Who Was Former Senator Bello Mandiya?
Bello Mandiya was a Nigerian politician who represented Katsina South Senatorial District in the Ninth National Assembly between 2019 and 2023.
He was elected under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Before joining the Senate, Mandiya served as Chief of Staff to former Katsina State Governor Aminu Bello Masari.
During his time in the National Assembly, he chaired the Senate Committee on Water Resources, contributing to legislative oversight and discussions concerning Nigeria’s water sector.
Mandiya died at the age of 62.
His death attracted condolences from political leaders, former colleagues and associates who remembered his years of public service.
Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda had earlier expressed sadness over the loss, describing Mandiya as a dedicated public servant whose contributions would be remembered.
The latest account by Senator Ningi has provided additional details about the circumstances in which the former lawmaker was discovered, weeks after his death.
Emmanuel Bassey is a Financial Expert that has worked in the Banking and Finance Industry for over 15+ years across different banks in Nigeria
