Senate President Godswill Akpabio has described late elder statesman Alhaji Bamanga Tukur as a detribalised Nigerian whose contributions to the country transcended ethnic and political boundaries. Akpabio made this statement during a condolence visit to the family of the late former governor of the defunct Gongola State on Tuesday. He recalled his personal relationship with Tukur, noting that the late elder statesman had chaired an event he attended in London in 2009.
Akpabio expressed regret that Tukur was no longer alive to continue sharing his wealth of experience and wisdom. He added that Tukur's contributions to national development would remain memorable. The Senate President disclosed that the National Assembly would honour Tukur on the floor of the Senate when it resumes. He urged Tukur's children to continue in their father's footsteps and uphold the values for which he was known.
Tukur passed away on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the age of 90. Akpabio, who arrived in Nigeria from Italy, was accompanied by his wife, Mrs Unoma Akpabio, and his entourage during the condolence visit. The late elder statesman was a former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and a great patriot who left behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and service to the nation.
Responding on behalf of the family, one of Tukur's sons, Mahmoud Tukur, thanked Akpabio, his wife, and entourage for the condolence visit. Mahmoud also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and Nigerians for honouring and remembering his father. He acknowledged the outpouring of tributes and condolences from well-wishers and Nigerians in general.
Akpabio's visit to the Tukur family was a testament to the late elder statesman's impact on the nation and his relationships with prominent Nigerians. The Senate President's tribute to Tukur highlighted the late statesman's selfless service and dedication to the country. Tukur's legacy continues to inspire and serve as an example to younger politicians and Nigerians.
The Nation had reported that governors, Akpabio, and other notable Nigerians had paid tribute to the First Lady, who recently celebrated her 66th birthday. In a similar vein, Akpabio had shared his personal experience of how Padre Pio interceded in his wife's miraculous recovery. He had also expressed optimism that the banking sector was stronger and that insecurity would soon end.
The late Bamanga Tukur's life and legacy will continue to be remembered and celebrated by Nigerians. His contributions to national development, politics, and governance have left a lasting impact on the country. As the National Assembly prepares to honour him, Tukur's family and Nigerians in general continue to mourn his passing and celebrate his remarkable life.
Key points
- Akpabio describes late Bamanga Tukur as a detribalised Nigerian whose contributions transcended ethnic and political boundaries.
- The National Assembly will honour Tukur on the floor of the Senate when it resumes.
- Tukur passed away on September 12, 2026, at the age of 90, leaving behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and service to the nation.
