Plans by the Senate to commence deliberations on the proposed State Police Bill suffered an unexpected setback on Tuesday after lawmakers suspended all proceedings at an emergency plenary session in honour of late House of Representatives member, Hon. Yaya Tongo.
The upper legislative chamber had reconvened during its recess amid heightened anticipation that senators would begin consideration of the constitutional amendment bill seeking to establish state police formations across Nigeria. The proposal is regarded as one of the most significant security reforms currently before the National Assembly.
However, the atmosphere in the chamber turned solemn when Senate President Godswill Akpabio formally informed lawmakers of the passing of Tongo, who represented the Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency of Gombe State.
The lawmaker died on June 12, 2026, at Nizamiye Hospital in Abuja after a brief illness, bringing an abrupt end to a political career marked by grassroots engagement and public service.
News of his death drew tributes from political leaders, associates and constituents. Among those who paid homage were former Minister of Communications, Isa Pantami, and Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, both of whom commended his dedication to youth development, community advancement and legislative service.
Tongo was first elected into the House of Representatives under the Peoples Democratic Party before winning a second term in the 2023 general election. In March 2026, he defected to the African Democratic Congress, joining a growing list of lawmakers who switched political parties ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Announcing the decision to suspend legislative activities, Akpabio said the Senate would dedicate the day to mourning the deceased lawmaker and allow members participate in funeral activities.
He said, “Let me mention that we will not go into any other discussion today. With heavy hearts, I announce the passing of our Honourable Member of the House of Representatives, Mallam Yaya Tongo, representing the Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency of Gombe State, who died during this brief recess and is being committed to Mother Earth.
‘Let me say that our sympathies go with the family. Our consolation to the children and his soul should rest in peace.
“However, 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. May we rise to observe one minute’s silence.”
Following the Senate President’s remarks, lawmakers stood in silence for one minute to honour the late legislator before the chamber adjourned.
The adjournment means that consideration of several pending matters, including the State Police Bill recently transmitted by President Bola Tinubu, has been postponed.
The proposed legislation seeks amendments to the 1999 Constitution that would establish a dual policing system, allowing both federal and state governments to operate separate police services. Advocates of the reform argue that it is a necessary response to persistent security challenges such as banditry, kidnapping, insurgency and other violent crimes affecting various parts of the country.
(Ripples)