Former Senator Bello Mandiya Found Dead in Abuja Home 72 Hours After Reported Bathroom Fall, Ningi Tells Senate.

Former Senator Bello Mandiya Found Dead in Abuja Home 72 Hours After Reported Bathroom Fall, Ningi Tells Senate.

Former Nigerian senator Bello Mandiya was reportedly found dead in the bathroom of his Abuja residence approximately 72 hours after he was last seen alive, following an alleged fall in which he struck his head.

Senator Abdul Ningi, who represents Bauchi Central Senatorial District, recounted the circumstances surrounding Mandiya’s death during a Senate plenary session on Tuesday, October 13, 2026. His account subsequently gained widespread attention after a video of his remarks circulated on Thursday.

According to Ningi, Mandiya, who represented Katsina South Senatorial District in the Ninth National Assembly, lived alone at his Abuja residence. The former lawmaker was last seen by a colleague at approximately 11 a.m. on Friday, September 4, 2026.

Ningi explained that Mandiya had returned home and was preparing to attend Friday congregational prayers when the incident reportedly occurred.

The Bauchi senator said Mandiya had placed his cap and mobile phones on his bed before entering the bathroom to bathe. According to his account, the former lawmaker slipped after bathing and struck his head.

Because Mandiya lived alone, nobody was immediately aware of the incident or able to provide assistance.

How Mandiya’s Body Was Discovered

Ningi said concerns about Mandiya’s prolonged absence eventually prompted people familiar with his routine to investigate.

The Chief Imam of Apo reportedly became concerned after noticing that the former senator, who regularly attended the five daily Muslim prayers, had been absent for three consecutive days.

The situation became more alarming when a foul smell reportedly began emanating from Mandiya’s apartment.

According to Ningi, the combination of his unexplained absence and the smell prompted people to visit the residence. They eventually forced the door open and discovered his body in the bathroom.

The senator said he was in Saudi Arabia when his son telephoned him with the news of Mandiya’s death. His son was among those who went to the residence when the body was discovered on September 7.

Reflecting on the circumstances, Ningi described the incident as a sobering reminder of the uncertainty of life and the vulnerability of people regardless of their political influence or financial standing.

Mandiya’s Political Career and Public Service

Mandiya represented Katsina South Senatorial District under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from 2019 to 2023.

Before entering the Senate, he served as chief of staff to former Katsina State Governor Aminu Bello Masari. During his time in the National Assembly, he also chaired the Senate Committee on Water Resources.

His death was announced by the Katsina State Government in September 2026, prompting tributes from political leaders and associates.

Governor Dikko Radda expressed sadness over the former lawmaker’s passing, describing it as a significant loss to Katsina State and Nigeria.

Mandiya was 62 years old at the time of his death.

Questions About Living Alone and Emergency Response

The circumstances surrounding Mandiya’s death have drawn attention to the risks faced by people who live alone, particularly when a medical emergency or accident occurs without anyone nearby to provide immediate assistance.

Although Ningi attributed the incident to a reported bathroom fall, the account presented during Senate proceedings does not, by itself, establish a complete medical explanation for the former senator’s death.

The case also highlights the importance of maintaining regular contact with relatives, friends and neighbours, especially when someone lives alone and follows an established daily routine.

Mandiya’s death represents the loss of a former national lawmaker whose career included service at both state and federal levels. Tributes from political figures and members of his community have underscored his role in public service and the impact of his passing on those who knew him.