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ABUJA – The House of Representatives has been thrown into mourning following the death of Honourable Yaya Bauchi Tongo, the member representing Kwami/Funakaye/Gombe Federal Constituency of Gombe State.
Tongo, who was elected to the House of Representatives on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general election, died on Friday in Abuja after a period of illness.
He had recently defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in March 2026 amid ongoing political realignments ahead of the next electoral cycle.
News of his passing was made public by former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Pantami, who disclosed the development in a post on his verified X handle on Friday.
Pantami wrote: “We have lost our representative for Gombe, Kwami, and Funakaye, Hon Yaya Bauchi Tongo. He passed away today, Friday, June 12, 2026.”
The former minister revealed that he had visited the late lawmaker earlier in the day at Nizamiye Hospital in Abuja, where he was receiving medical treatment.
“Today, along with Alhaji Bappa Ahmad Abdullahi and some colleagues, I visited Nizamiye Hospital, Abuja, from 3:30pm to 3:50pm, where I prayed for him.
“I also met his friend, two of his children, and other relatives at the hospital. They received me and accompanied me to his room.
“Since leaving the hospital, I have been deeply worried because of the condition I saw him in. Even to a layman like me, his health condition was clearly critical. However, we always put our trust in Allah, the Almighty God.
“A few hours later, I received news of his passing at Nizamiye Hospital, Abuja, today, Friday.
“We have lost one of our own. However, passing away on a Friday carries its own spiritual blessing.”
Pantami further referenced a saying of Prophet Muhammad, noting that: “No believer passes away on Friday, or its night, but that Allah will protect him from the trial of the grave.”
He prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul, asking God to grant him eternal rest in Jannatul Firdaus and comfort his family and loved ones.
The death of Tongo marks another loss for the National Assembly, where he was known for his representation of one of Gombe State’s most politically significant federal constituencies. During his time in the House, he participated in legislative debates and constituency-focused interventions aimed at addressing developmental challenges in his district.
His defection from the PDP to the ADC earlier this year drew attention within the state’s political landscape, reflecting the shifting alliances that have characterised preparations for future elections.
As of the time of filing this report, the leadership of the House of Representatives had yet to issue an official statement on his death. Tributes from political associates, constituents and public officials were, however, expected as news of his passing continued to spread.
Tongo is survived by members of his immediate family, political associates and supporters across Gombe State and beyond.
