The state police debate was postponed as the Senate mourned the death of Rep. Yaya Tongo

The Senate’s plans to begin deliberations on the National Police Bill suffered an unexpected setback on Tuesday after lawmakers postponed all proceedings at an emergency plenary session in honor of the late member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yaya Tongo.

The upper house of the legislature has reconvened during a recess amid growing anticipation that senators will begin considering a constitutional amendment bill that seeks to establish state police formations across Nigeria. The proposal is considered one of the most significant security reforms currently submitted to the National Assembly.

However, the mood in the courtroom turned serious when Senate President Godswill Akpabio officially informed lawmakers of the passing of Tongo, who represented Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency in Gombe State.

The lawmaker died on June 12, 2026, at Nizamiye Hospital in Abuja after a brief illness, thus ending a political career marked by grassroots engagement and public service.

News of his death drew tributes from political leaders, colleagues and constituents. Among those who paid tribute were former Minister of Communications, Isa Pantami, and Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, both of whom praised his dedication to youth development, community progress and legislative service.

Tongo was first elected to the House of Representatives under the People’s 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 number of MPs switching political parties ahead of the next election cycle.

Also read: State police action gains momentum as Tinubu submits constitutional amendments to the Senate

Announcing the decision to suspend legislative activities, Akpabio said the Senate would dedicate the day to mourn the passing of the lawmaker and allow members to participate in funeral activities.

He said, “Let me say that we will not discuss anything else today. With a heavy heart, I announce the passing of our respected Member of the House of Representatives, Mallam Yaya Tongo, representing Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency in Gombe State, who died during this short recess and was committed to Mother Earth.

Let me say that our sympathies go out to the family. Our consolation to the children and their souls should be rest in peace.

“However, in line with our tradition, we will observe a minute’s silence and then take a break from the hall to return to our constitutional duties tomorrow. May we rise to a minute’s silence.”

Following the Senate President’s statement, lawmakers observed a minute’s silence to honor the late legislator before the session adjourned.

This postponement means postponing discussions on several matters, including the National Police Bill which was recently passed by President Bola Tinubu.

The proposed law aims to make an amendment to the 1999 Constitution that would establish a dual policing system, allowing the federal and state governments to operate police services separately. Proponents of the reform argue that it is a necessary response to ongoing security challenges such as banditry, kidnapping, insurgency and other violent crimes affecting various regions of the country.