The Senate on Tuesday suspended deliberations on the proposed State Police Bill and other legislative activities during its emergency plenary session in honour of the late member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yaya Tongo.
The upper legislative chamber had reconvened from recess with expectations that lawmakers would begin accelerated consideration of the constitutional amendment seeking to establish state police across Nigeria.
However, proceedings took a different turn after Senate President Godswill Akpabio formally announced the passing of Hon. Tongo, who represented Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency of Gombe State.
Tongo reportedly died on June 12, 2026, at Nizamiye Hospital in Abuja after a brief illness.
His death drew tributes from political leaders and associates across the country, who remembered him for his contributions to public service, youth empowerment and grassroots development.
Among those who paid tribute were former Minister of Communications, Isa Pantami, and Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.
The late lawmaker was first elected into the House of Representatives under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and returned to the National Assembly in 2023 for a second term. He later moved to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in March 2026.
Announcing the suspension of legislative business, Akpabio said the Senate would adjourn to allow lawmakers participate in mourning activities and burial rites for their late colleague.
Addressing the chamber, the Senate President said the National Assembly shared the pain of the bereaved family and extended condolences to his children and loved ones.
He subsequently called for a minute of silence in honour of the deceased before officially ending the day’s proceedings.
Following the tribute session, senators observed the symbolic moment of silence before the chamber adjourned.
The development temporarily puts on hold Senate action on pending matters, including the State Police Bill recently transmitted by President Bola Tinubu.
The proposed legislation seeks constitutional amendments to establish a dual policing system made up of federal and state police formations, a reform being advanced as part of efforts to address insecurity, kidnapping, banditry and insurgency across the country.
Lawmakers are expected to resume deliberations on the bill and other constitutional amendment proposals when the Senate reconvenes on Wednesday.
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