Former Senator Bello Mandiya Dies at 62 in Abuja as Tributes Pour In for Ex-Governor Masari’s Right-Hand Man

Katsina State and the national political community have been plunged into mourning following the demise of former federal lawmaker, Senator Bello Mandiya, who passed away in Abuja at the age of 62.

Mandiya, a prominent political figure who represented Katsina South Senatorial District between 2019 and 2023, was widely recognized for his administrative competence and grassroots mobilization across the Funtua administrative zone.

Before his tenure in the upper chamber of the National Assembly, Mandiya was an indispensable pillar in the administration of former Katsina State Governor Aminu Bello Masari, where he served with distinction as Chief of Staff. In that executive role, he coordinated key government initiatives, managed inter-agency relations, and served as a bridge between the executive office and diverse stakeholder groups across the state. His performance within the state cabinet laid the groundwork for his subsequent election to the Senate on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

During his four years in the 9th Senate, Mandiya was an active participant in legislative governance, serving on crucial parliamentary committees and championing infrastructural and developmental interventions tailored to the socio-economic needs of his agricultural and commercial constituency.

Reacting to the news, Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda voiced grief over the sudden passing, characterizing the loss as a major blow to Katsina State and the country at large. In a statement released through his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Mohammed, Governor Radda paid tribute to Mandiya’s unyielding dedication to public service, noting that his contributions across state and federal levels stand as a testament to his commitment to societal progress.

The governor extended condolences to the bereaved family, former Governor Masari, the people of the Katsina South Senatorial District, political associates, and members of the 9th National Assembly, offering prayers for the repose of his soul.

Colleagues, family members, and associates gathered at the Apo Legislative Quarters in Abuja for the funeral prayers, with dignitaries from across the political spectrum paying their final respects to a leader remembered for his humility, political loyalty, and public service.