Nigeria has lost a political titan. Dr. Bamanga Tukur, a former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and a figure who spanned decades of public service, business, and politics, has passed away at the age of 90.
His death was mourned by prominent Nigerians, including Chibudom Nwuche, a former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP. Nwuche, who served under Tukur between 2012 and 2014, described the deceased as his leader, mentor, and father figure. He highlighted Tukur's extensive contributions that stretched across politics, public service, and the business world, emphasizing that he lived a fulfilled life of service.
Tukur was more than a party chairman to me. As Deputy National Chairman of the PDP under his leadership from 2012 to 2014, I saw first-hand a statesman of uncommon wisdom, discipline and patriotism. He led the party with firmness, institutional knowledge and an unwavering belief in party supremacy and national unity.
Tukur’s illustrious career saw him hold several powerful positions. He served as the General Manager of the Nigerian Ports Authority, a role that put him at the helm of a critical national infrastructure. He also served as governor of the old Gongola State, a significant political appointment in the country's history, and later as a minister. Beyond government, Tukur was a prominent continental business leader, notably through his involvement with the African Business Roundtable and the NEPAD Business Group, showing his commitment to economic development across the continent. He also held the traditional title of Tafidan Adamawa.
Nwuche fondly recalled Tukur's leadership style within the PDP, stating that he led the party with "firmness, institutional knowledge and an unwavering belief in party supremacy and national unity." He characterized Tukur as "urbane, generous, full of big ideas and bold enterprise," and someone who "believed deeply in Nigeria’s limitless potential and in grooming younger ones to serve."
Tukur's influence wasn't confined to his official roles. His role in mentoring younger individuals and promoting national development was a key aspect of his legacy, according to Nwuche. His passing is seen as a major loss not just to his political party but to the entire nation.
Condolences have been extended to the Tukur family, the Fombina Emirate, the Adamawa State Government and its people, the PDP as a whole, and to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Nwuche also specifically sent condolences to Honourable Awal Tukur, who serves as the Secretary to the Government of Adamawa State and was Nwuche's colleague at the National Assembly from 1999 to 2003.