The All Progressives Congress governorship candidate in Adamawa State, Ahmed Galadima, has mourned the death of elder statesman and former governor of the old Gongola State, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur.
Galadima described Tukur’s death as a monumental loss to Adamawa State and Nigeria, saying his passing marked the end of an important chapter in the country’s public service, politics and business.
In a condolence message issued on Saturday by his media aide, Adamu Sambo, Galadima described Tukur as a consummate statesman whose career transcended partisan politics.
He said the deceased made significant contributions to Nigeria through public administration, maritime development, industry, business and national politics.
Galadima recalled that Tukur served as General Manager and Chief Executive of the Nigerian Ports Authority from 1975 to 1982, where he contributed to the development and expansion of the country’s maritime infrastructure.
He subsequently entered politics and was elected governor of the old Gongola State in 1983. The territory was later divided into present-day Adamawa and Taraba states.
Tukur later served as Minister of Industries and became National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party from 2012 to 2014.
Beyond the positions he occupied, Galadima said Tukur’s experience and influence made him an important figure in Nigeria’s political and developmental history.
“Alhaji Bamanga Tukur was more than a former governor or former national political leader. He was an institution in his own right,” he said.
“For Adamawa, his passing is particularly painful. We have lost an elder whose footprints are deeply embedded in the political and developmental history of our state.”
Galadima extended his condolences to the Tukur family, the people of Adamawa State, his friends and associates, as well as Nigerians and Africans who were touched by his years of service.
He also commended Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for declaring three days of mourning across Adamawa in honour of the late elder statesman.
Galadima described the decision as a statesmanlike gesture that recognised Tukur’s contributions beyond political party lines.
He said the mourning period would allow residents to reflect on Tukur’s life, honour his memory and acknowledge his contributions to Adamawa and Nigeria.
Galadima prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive Tukur’s shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.
