The Senate on Tuesday suspended its highly anticipated emergency plenary session, pausing all legislative business including the critical debate on the State Police Bill to honour the memory of House of Representatives member, Hon. Yaya Tongo.
The upper chamber had cut short its recess to fast-track action on the proposed constitutional amendment for state policing, a key legislative priority aimed at reforming Nigeria’s national security architecture. However, proceedings were swiftly adjourned following the announcement of Hon. Tongo’s passing by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Hon. Tongo, who represented the Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency of Gombe State, passed away on June 12, 2026, at Nizamiye Hospital in Abuja after a brief illness.
First elected to the House of Representatives under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Tongo secured re-election to the 10th National Assembly in 2023, later defecting to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in March 2026. His passing has triggered a wave of tributes nationwide, with prominent figures including Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, and former Communications Minister, Isa Pantami praising his dedicated service to youth empowerment and grassroots development.
In his address to the chamber, Senate President Akpabio expressed deep condolences to the late lawmaker’s family and constituency, underscoring the National Assembly’s shared grief.
With heavy hearts, I announce the passing of our Honourable Member of the House of Representatives, Mallam Yaya Tongo, who died during this brief recess and is being committed to Mother Earth.In line with our tradition, we will observe one minute’s silence and then recess from the hall to come back for our constitutional duty tomorrow.
Senator Godswill Akpabio.
Following the one-minute silence observed by all senators, the chamber officially adjourned. Legislative activities, including the consideration of the State Police Bill, are scheduled to resume tomorrow.
