Senator Abdul Ningi has recounted how his late colleague, Bello Mandiya, reportedly slipped and hit his head in the bathroom of his Abuja residence, with his body discovered about 72 hours later.
Ningi, who represents Bauchi Central Senatorial District, narrated the circumstances surrounding Mandiya’s death during Senate plenary on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.
A video of his account went viral on Thursday.
According to Ningi, Mandiya lived alone, and his absence went unnoticed for three days until concerns were raised over his failure to attend congregational prayers.
The senator said Mandiya was last seen by a colleague at about 11am on Friday, September 4, after returning home to prepare for prayers.
“He brought out his cap, his phones, and put them on the bed, and went into the bathroom to take his bath,” Ningi said.
“After taking his bath, when he was out of the bathroom, then he slipped and knocked his head in the bathroom.”
Ningi said the incident remained undiscovered until a foul smell began coming from Mandiya’s apartment, prompting concern among residents.
“For 72 hours, Mr President, nobody knew where Bello Mandiya was,” he told the Senate.
Those who eventually went to the residence forced the door open and found the former lawmaker dead in the bathroom, he said.
“And there lies Bello Mandiya in the bathroom, lifeless. Seventy-two hours, and that’s a simple tragedy,” Ningi said.
The senator disclosed that he was in Saudi Arabia when his son called to inform him of Mandiya’s death. His son was among those who discovered the body on September 7, 2026.
Ningi, who said he had known Mandiya since 2002, described the incident as a painful reminder of life’s uncertainty.
“There is nothing permanent about anything. Nothing permanent about our position, nothing permanent about our wealth,” he said.
He prayed for the repose of Mandiya’s soul and extended his condolences to the deceased’s family, the people of Katsina State and his former constituents.
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