Former senator Bello Mandiya, who represented the Katsina South Senatorial District, has died in Abuja at the age of 62. The Katsina State Government confirmed his death on Monday evening, with burial scheduled for Tuesday in Abuja.
Death and Burial Arrangements Confirmed
Ibrahim Mohammed, chief press secretary to Katsina Governor Dikko Radda, told journalists that Mandiya died on Monday in Abuja. The cause of death was not immediately made public at the time of the announcement.
The former senator served in the ninth National Assembly, representing Katsina South from 2019 to 2023 on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Before his election to the Senate, Mandiya served as chief of staff to former Katsina Governor Aminu Masari, a role that placed him at the heart of Katsina State's political administration.
Governor Radda Mourns the Loss
Governor Dikko Radda issued a statement expressing shock and deep sadness at the news. He described Mandiya's passing as a significant loss not only to Katsina State but to Nigeria as a whole.
"I received with shock and deep sadness the news of the death of Senator Bello Mandiya. His passing is a great loss to Katsina State and Nigeria," the governor said.
Radda also acknowledged Mandiya's record in public life, stating: "Senator Mandiya dedicated part of his life to public service and served our people with commitment. His contributions will remain remembered."
Condolences and Legacy
The governor extended condolences to Mandiya's family, former Katsina State Governor Aminu Masari, the people of Katsina South, his political associates, and his former Senate colleagues. Radda prayed for the repose of the former senator's soul and asked for strength for those he left behind.
Mandiya's political career was marked by his tenure as chief of staff to Governor Masari, a position that preceded his successful Senate bid in 2019. His time in the Senate covered the ninth Assembly, during which he represented the interests of Katsina South until his tenure concluded in 2023.
The late senator's death comes amid a period of heightened political activity in Katsina State, where his passing is expected to be felt across party lines. As of the time of this report, no further details about the cause of death or funeral arrangements beyond Tuesday's burial in Abuja have been released.
