Former national chairman of PDP, Bamanga Tukur, is dead

By Ayorinde Oluokun

Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, businessman, governor of defunct Gongola State and former National Chairman of Peoples Democratic, PDP, is dead.

Adamawa state government confirmed that the elder statesman passed away in Abuja on Saturday after a brief illness.

He was aged 90. It was gathered that his remains will be conveyed to Yola, the capital of Adamawa state, for funeral later on Saturday.

In his tribute, Adamawa governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, described the passage of Tukur as a monumental loss to the State and Nigeria, commending his courage, foresight, patriotism and lifelong commitment to public service.

Fintiri, in the statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Humwashi Wonosikou, also declared three days of mourning across Adamawa State, during which all government flags shall fly at half-mast for the deceased businessman.

“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.

“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,” Governor Fintiri said.

The Governor extended his condolences to the deceased’s immediate family, friends, associates and the people of Adamawa State, urging them to draw strength from his enduring legacy of service and leadership.

The Governor prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive the deceased’s shortcomings, grant him Aljannah Firdaus, and give his family and loved ones the fortitude to bear the loss.

Bamanga Tukur was a towering figure in Nigeria’s socio-political and economic sectors for over 60 years, serving as Minister of Industries and National Chairman of the then ruling PDP at different times.

Tukur who was born on 15, September 1935 also served as the General Manager/ Chief Executive of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) from 1975 to 1982.

He was elected governor of the old Gongola State (Now divided into Adamawa and Taraba states) in 1982, but his tenure was terminated by the December 1983 military coup.

He was Minister for Industries under late General Sani Abacha’s military administration from 1993 to 1995.

Tukur was Founder of BHI Holdings (Daddo Group) as well as the founder and life patron of Africa Business Roundtable (ABR).

He was also the first African Vice President of the International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH)

He served as the national chairman of PDP between 2012–2014.

Dear Vows