OBASANJO PAYS TRIBUTE TO BAMANGA TUKUR, HAILS HIS PUBLIC SERVICE LEGACY

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed grief over the death of former Peoples Democratic Party National Chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, describing the late elder statesman as a patriot who made significant contributions to Nigeria’s development and public service.

In a tribute issued on Sunday through his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo recalled Tukur’s long career across government, business and politics. He said the late politician carried out his responsibilities with a strong sense of duty and remained committed to national development throughout his years in public life.

Obasanjo highlighted Tukur’s service as General Manager and Chief Executive of the Nigerian Ports Authority, civilian governor of the former Gongola State and Minister of Industries. He also recalled their association during Nigeria’s democratic journey, particularly when Tukur served as national chairman of the PDP between 2012 and 2014.

The former President acknowledged that their political years were sometimes marked by disagreements over the direction of the party and the country, but said he never questioned Tukur’s commitment to Nigeria. He also praised his role in continental business advocacy as Chairman of the African Business Roundtable, describing him as a figure who promoted economic independence and African integration.

Tukur died on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the age of 90, according to a statement from his family. Born on September 15, 1935, he was also a former governor of the old Gongola State and later served as Ambassador-at-Large under the Goodluck Jonathan administration. Obasanjo extended his condolences to the Tukur family, the people of Adamawa State and his political associates across the country, praying for the repose of his soul.