The Senate on Tuesday suspended deliberations on the proposed State Police Bill and all other legislative business after the death of a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yaya Tongo.

The upper chamber had reconvened from recess amid expectations that lawmakers would begin consideration of the constitutional amendment seeking to establish state police across the country, a proposal regarded as a key component of efforts to address Nigeria’s security challenges.

However, proceedings were cut short when Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the passing of Tongo, who represented the Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency of Gombe State.

Tongo died on June 12, 2026, at Nizamiye Hospital in Abuja following a brief illness.

His death has attracted tributes from political leaders and associates, including former Minister of Communications, Isa Pantami, and Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, who described him as a committed public servant dedicated to grassroots development and youth empowerment.

The late lawmaker was first elected to the House of Representatives on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and was re-elected in 2023. He later defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in March 2026.

Announcing the suspension of Senate activities, Akpabio said lawmakers would adjourn to honour their late colleague and participate in his burial rites.

“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,” Akpabio said.

He extended condolences to the deceased’s family and called for a minute of silence in his memory before adjourning the session.

Following the tribute, senators observed a minute’s silence and the chamber was adjourned until Wednesday.

The development delays consideration of several pending legislative matters, including the State Police Bill recently transmitted to the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu.

The proposed legislation seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution to establish a dual policing system comprising federal and state police services. The Presidency has described the measure as a critical step toward tackling insecurity, banditry, kidnapping and insurgency across the country.

The Senate is expected to resume debate on the bill and other constitutional amendment proposals when lawmakers reconvene on Wednesday.