Gombe Rep dies after brief illness, Speaker Abbas and House mourn

Speaker Abbas Tajudeen has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Yaya Tongo, a member of the House of Representatives representing Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency. Tongo passed away in Abuja on Friday evening after a brief illness, just six days before his 63rd birthday. He served as the Chairman of the Nigeria–United Arab Emirates Parliamentary Friendship Group in the House.

In a condolence message, Speaker Tajudeen described the late legislator as a committed representative who served his constituents with dedication and patriotism. He noted that Tongo's death was shocking, highlighting his active participation in legislative activities and significant contributions to parliamentary debates and national development. The speaker recalled Tongo's interventions during plenary sessions and committee engagements, stating that his experience enriched the House's work and created a vacuum.

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Though it is painful to lose a colleague of his standing, the House finds solace in the fact that he lived a life worthy of emulation.

The House leadership, through its spokesperson Akin Rotimi, also reacted with profound shock and sadness. The lawmaker's passing marked the end of a distinguished career dedicated to public service, grassroots development, and democratic governance. Tongo was recognized as a seasoned politician and administrator with decades of public service across various government levels, including chairman of Funakaye Local Government Area and special adviser to the Gombe State Government, prior to his election to the House of Representatives. He was also a member of the Gombe State House of Assembly. The House leadership described him as a respected voice who consistently advocated for policies benefiting his constituents and promoting national development, bringing wisdom, experience, and a deep understanding of governance to his legislative role.

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profound shock and sadness.