From Kenneth Udeh, Abuja
Former Abia State Governor and Senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, has joined his colleagues within the Senate to mourn the demise of former Katsina South Senator, Bello Mandiya, describing his passing as a loss to Katsina State and all the nation.
Mandiya, who died in Abuja in September 2026, at the age of 62, represented Katsina South Senatorial District within the ninth Senate from 2019 to 2023 on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He additionally served as Chief of Staff to former Katsina State Governor, Aminu Bello Masari.
Kalu paid tribute to the late lawmaker throughout Wednesday’s plenary presided by Senate President Godswill Apkabio, following a movement sponsored by Senator Dandutse Muntari, who succeeded Mandiya because the consultant of Katsina South.
Speaking in an emotion-laden voice, Kalu recalled his relationship with the deceased, highlighting the private bond they shared each inside and outdoors the National Assembly.
The former governor described Mandiya as a person of integrity, ethical uprightness and unwavering dedication to public service, noting that his contributions as a chief of workers and a senator mirrored his dedication to the folks he served.
Recalling their time collectively within the ninth Senate, Kalu mentioned Mandiya stood his floor on issues of precept and integrity, whereas sustaining a pleasant disposition and refusing to harbour grudges towards others.
He described their relationship as one which transcended politics and parliamentary duties, saying the late senator was greater than a colleague to him.
Kalu additional expressed shock over Mandiya’s demise, reflecting on the inevitability of demise and urging his colleagues to recognise the transient nature of life.
He prolonged his condolences to the bereaved household, the federal government and other people of Katsina State, praying that they might discover the energy to bear the loss.
The Abia North senator expressed confidence that Mandiya’s legacy of integrity, cordial relationships and repair to the nation would endure, serving as a degree of reference for individuals who aspire to public service.
