By Nafeesa Vandi
Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa has expressed sadness over the death of Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, former Governor of defunct Gongola State and former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Tukur, who served as the third civilian governor of former Gongola, died on Saturday after a brief illness.
In a condolence message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Humwashi Wonosikou, Fintiri described the death as “a monumental loss to Adamawa and Nigeria.”
The governor said Tukur was an elder statesman, accomplished businessman and distinguished politician who made significant contributions to the development of the state and the country.
He added that “Bamanga Tukur made remarkable contributions to the development of Adamawa State and Nigeria.
“His wealth of experience, wisdom and commitment to public service earned him a place of honour in our national history.”
Fintiri also said he would personally miss the late elder statesman’s wise counsel and wealth of experience on matters concerning the state and the nation, noting that his death would create a significant void that would be difficult to fill.
The governor extended his condolences to the deceased’s family, friends, associates and the people of Adamawa, urging them to draw strength from his enduring legacy of service and leadership.
He also declared three days of mourning across the state in honour of the late Tukur.
He directed that flags be flown at half-mast throughout the mourning period and prayed Almighty Allah to forgive Tukur’s shortcomings, grant him Aljannah Firdaus and give his family the fortitude to bear the loss.
Born on Sept. 15, 1935, Tukur was also a businessman and a politician. He served as Minister for Industries in the 1990s.
He was the president of the Africa Business Roundtable in 2012, among others.
(NAN)
