Tukur’s death a great loss to Nigeria, Adamawa – Jonathan

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed grief over the death of former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Alhaji Bamanga Mohammed Tukur, describing him as a distinguished patriot, elder statesman and committed democrat.

Jonathan, in a condolence message issued by his Special Adviser, Ikechukwu Eze, said Tukur devoted a significant part of his life to serving Nigeria and contributed to the country’s political development and democratic consolidation.

The former President said Tukur’s contributions extended beyond partisan politics, noting his role as a respected political figure and former national chairman of the PDP.

He said the late politician played an important role in the growth of the party and Nigeria’s democratic journey.

Jonathan described Tukur as a man of “remarkable experience and wisdom” whose years of service to the nation had left a significant mark on Nigeria.

“Alhaji Tukur was a man of remarkable experience and wisdom who dedicated much of his life to the service of our nation. His contributions to Nigeria’s political development, democratic consolidation, and national unity remain significant,” Jonathan said.

The former President also recognised Tukur’s contributions to Nigeria’s economic and business sectors, describing him as a foremost administrator, entrepreneur and businessman.

According to Jonathan, Tukur’s activities in business and public administration contributed to the development of Nigeria’s economic landscape, while his experience in various fields made him a respected elder in national affairs.

Jonathan said the late former PDP chairman’s counsel, experience and commitment to democratic governance would be greatly missed.

He described Tukur’s death as a major loss to his family, Adamawa State and Nigeria, while expressing confidence that his legacy of service and patriotism would endure.

Tukur died on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the age of 90, according to a statement by his family.

He was born on September 15, 1935, and served as governor of the old Gongola State, Minister of Industries during the military administration of the late General Sani Abacha, and General Manager and Chief Executive of the Nigerian Ports Authority.

He later became national chairman of the PDP in March 2012 during Jonathan’s presidency.

His tenure as PDP chairman coincided with a period of internal crisis within the party, including the emergence of the “New PDP” faction in 2013. He resigned from the position in January 2014 and was subsequently appointed Ambassador-at-Large by the Jonathan administration.

Jonathan prayed that Almighty Allah would forgive Tukur’s shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.

He also prayed for strength and fortitude for the Tukur family to bear what he described as an irreparable loss.

Dear Vows