He hailed from the Fulani community in Kebbi, located in the Northern Nigeria.
[1][2] During the 19th century, when the Central Sudan region was undergoing significant changes due to the conquests led by Uthman dan Fodio, Mallam Dendo migrated to Nupe country.
[3] This period marked the Nupe People's subjugation by the Emir of Gwandu.
He is credited with establishing the Bida Emirate, a new political entity that lasted for almost 200 years, and introducing reforms that modernized Nupe society.
[1] Mallam Dendo was interested in studying Islam and became a leader in his community.