Senator Abdul Ningi Recalls Colleague’s Tragic Death
Senator Abdul Ningi has reported the unfortunate death of his colleague, Bello Mandiya, who is believed to have died after slipping in his bathroom and hitting his head. Mandiya’s body was found approximately 72 hours later in his Abuja home.
Ningi, representing Bauchi Central Senatorial District, shared that neighbours discovered Mandiya’s body after a foul odour alerted them to his absence. He was informed of the incident by his son while in Saudi Arabia.
Ningi recounted that Mandiya had last been seen around 11am on Friday, September 4, as he prepared to attend Friday prayers. After bathing, he reportedly slipped and fell in the bathroom.
“After taking his bath, he slipped and knocked his head,” Ningi stated. It wasn’t until the unpleasant smell spread that concerns grew. The chief imam of Apo became alarmed at Mandiya’s absence from daily prayers, prompting neighbours to investigate his apartment.
They eventually forced open the door to find Mandiya lifeless in the bathroom. “Seventy-two hours, and that’s a simple tragedy,” Ningi remarked in the Senate.
Expressing his sorrow, Ningi noted the unpredictability of life and extended condolences to Mandiya’s family and constituents. Mandiya had previously served as chief of staff to former Katsina Governor Aminu Bello Masari and was elected to the Senate in 2019, representing Katsina South until 2023.
Mandiya’s death has prompted tributes from fellow politicians who recognised his contributions to public service and the community.
Ningi, who had known Mandiya since 2002, emphasised the fragility of life, reminding all that neither wealth nor status can guard against its uncertainty.