Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, businessman, former governor of defunct Gongola State and ex-National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, is dead.
The Adamawa State Government confirmed that the elder statesman died in Abuja on Saturday after a brief illness. He was 90.
His remains are expected to be conveyed to Yola, the Adamawa State capital, for burial later on Saturday.
In a tribute, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri described Tukur’s death as “a monumental loss to the State and Nigeria,” commending his courage, foresight, patriotism and lifelong commitment to public service.
In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Humwashi Wonosikou, the Governor declared three days of mourning across Adamawa State, during which all government flags will fly at half-mast.
“Alhaji Bamanga Tukur was a colossus who made remarkable contributions to the development of Adamawa State and Nigeria. His wealth of experience, wisdom and commitment to public service earned him a place of honour in our national history,” Fintiri said.
“I will personally miss his wise counsel and the depth of experience he brought to matters concerning our state and nation. His passing has left a significant void that will be difficult to fill,” he added.
The Governor condoled with the family, friends and people of Adamawa, and prayed to Allah to grant the deceased Aljannah Firdaus.
Born on September 15, 1935, Tukur was a towering figure in Nigeria’s socio-political and economic space for over 60 years.
He served as General Manager/Chief Executive of the Nigerian Ports Authority from 1975 to 1982, and was the first African Vice President of the International Association of Ports and Harbours, IAPH.
He was elected governor of old Gongola State in 1982. His tenure was cut short by the December 1983 military coup.
Tukur also served as Minister of Industries under the late Gen. Sani Abacha from 1993 to 1995, and as PDP National Chairman between 2012 and 2014.
He was founder of BHI Holdings, Daddo Group, and life patron of the Africa Business Roundtable, ABR.
