Obasanjo mourns ex-PDP Chairman Bamanga Tukur, describes him as patriot, bridge-builder

Nigeria's former President Olusegun Obasanjo has paid tribute to the late former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, describing him as a patriot and a colossus of public service. Tukur passed away on Saturday, just three days before his 91st birthday. Born on September 15, 1935, in Adamawa State, Tukur served as the governor of the old Gongola State in 1982, a position he held until the military coup of December 1983 interrupted his term.

Obasanjo, in a statement released by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, expressed his profound loss upon hearing of Tukur's death. He described the elder statesman as his long-time associate and compatriot whose life exemplified patriotism, unwavering commitment, and stellar public service. Throughout his career, spanning governance, international business, and political leadership, Obasanjo noted that Tukur remained steadfast in his duty.

The former President highlighted Tukur's transformative roles as the head of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and as the civilian governor of the defunct Gongola State, as well as his tenure as Minister of Industries, all of which were directed towards national productivity and progress.

Obasanjo emphasized their paths intersected significantly during the challenging years of Nigeria's democratic journey, especially when Tukur served as the PDP National Chairman. Despite the robust debates and differing perspectives on the party and nation's direction, Obasanjo never doubted Tukur's foundational love for Nigeria.

He further praised Tukur's leadership as Chairman of the African Business Roundtable, which underscored his vision for economic independence and Pan-African integration. With Tukur's passing, Obasanjo noted, Nigeria has lost a colossus and a bridge-builder who left an indelible footprint in the nation's history. On behalf of his family, Obasanjo extended condolences to Tukur's family, the government, and the people of Adamawa State, as well as political associates throughout the nation, praying for Allah's forgiveness, eternal rest for Tukur's soul, and strength for his loved ones.