Senate President Godswill Akpabio has paid a condolence visit to the family of late elder statesman Bamanga Tukur, describing him as a detribalised Nigerian whose contributions to the country transcended ethnic and political boundaries. Akpabio stated this on Tuesday during the visit, following his return to Nigeria from Italy. The Senate President's visit was a testament to the respect and admiration he had for Tukur, a great patriot and towering national figure.
Akpabio recalled his personal relationship with Tukur, noting that the late elder statesman had chaired an event he attended in London in 2009. He described Tukur as a great leader who left behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and service to the nation. According to Akpabio, Tukur's contributions to Nigeria went beyond ethnic and political considerations, and his impact would continue to be felt for generations to come.
The Senate President expressed regret that Tukur was no longer alive to continue sharing his wealth of experience and wisdom with the younger generation. He urged Tukur's children to continue in their father's footsteps and uphold the values for which he was known. Akpabio also disclosed that the National Assembly would honour Tukur on the floor of the Senate when it resumes.
Tukur passed away on Saturday, 12 September 2026, at the age of 90. He was a former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and a former governor of the defunct Gongola State. His death was met with widespread tributes and condolences from across the country.
Responding on behalf of the family, one of Tukur's sons, Mahmoud Tukur, thanked Akpabio, his wife, Mrs Unoma Akpabio, and his entourage for the condolence visit. Mahmoud also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians for honouring and remembering his father.
Akpabio's visit to the Tukur family was a demonstration of the respect and admiration he had for the late elder statesman. It was also a testament to the impact Tukur had on the lives of many Nigerians, including those in positions of power. His legacy would continue to inspire and guide future generations of leaders.
The late Bamanga Tukur would be remembered for his contributions to national development, his leadership, and his commitment to public service. His life and legacy would continue to serve as an example to younger politicians and Nigerians, and his impact would be felt for generations to come.
Key points
- Akpabio describes Bamanga Tukur as a detribalised Nigerian whose contributions transcended ethnic and political boundaries.
- The National Assembly would honour Tukur on the floor of the Senate when it resumes.
- Tukur passed away on 12 September 2026, at the age of 90.
