Obasanjo mourns Tukur, says Nigeria lost a colossus

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has mourned the death of former Peoples Democratic Party National Chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, describing him as a patriot and a colossus of public service.

Tukur, a former governor of Gongola State and Minister of Industries, died on Saturday, 12 September 2026, aged 90.

In a tribute issued on Sunday by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo described Tukur’s life as a testament to patriotism, public service and commitment to Nigeria.

Obasanjo said Tukur’s career spanned governance, business and politics, with his leadership marked by “an unmistakable sense of duty”.

He recalled Tukur’s service as General Manager and Chief Executive of the Nigerian Ports Authority, governor of the defunct Gongola State and Minister of Industries, saying the former PDP chairman remained committed to national productivity and development.

The former president said their paths crossed during Nigeria’s democratic transition, particularly when Tukur served as national chairman of the PDP.

“While politics often brought robust debates and differing perspectives on the direction of our party and nation, I never for once doubted his foundational love for Nigeria,” Obasanjo said.

He described Tukur as an “institutional pillar” who remained steadfast through political upheavals and also praised his contribution to African economic integration as chairman of the African Business Roundtable.

“With his passing, Nigeria has lost a colossus and a bridge-builder. He has run his race, made his mark, and left an indelible footprint in the history of our republic,” Obasanjo said.

He extended his condolences to the Tukur family, the government and people of Adamawa State and the late politician’s associates across the country.

Obasanjo prayed that Allah would forgive Tukur’s shortcomings, grant him eternal rest in Al-Jannah Firdaus and give his family the strength to bear the loss.

Tukur’s family announced his death in a statement signed by his son, Awwal D. Tukur, describing him as a beloved father and patriarch who devoted his life to his family, community, Adamawa State and Nigeria.

The family said Tukur died on 12 September and expressed appreciation for the prayers, condolences and support received following his death.

Born on 15 September 1935, Tukur would have turned 91 three days after his death.

He served as governor of the old Gongola State and later as Minister of Industries during the military administration of the late Gen Sani Abacha.

Tukur also headed the Nigerian Ports Authority and held several positions in business and African economic advocacy.

He became national chairman of the PDP in March 2012 under the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

His tenure coincided with a period of deepening internal divisions in the party, including the emergence of the New PDP faction in 2013.

He resigned as national chairman in January 2014 and was later appointed Ambassador-at-Large by the Jonathan administration.