Bamanga Tukur Was A Detribalised Nigerian, Says Akpabio

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has described the late elder statesman and former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, as a detribalised Nigerian whose contributions to the country transcended ethnic and political boundaries.

Akpabio stated this on Tuesday during a condolence visit to the family of the late former governor of the defunct Gongola State, following his return to Nigeria from Italy.

The Senate President described Tukur as “a detribalised Nigerian, great patriot and towering national figure” whose contributions to Nigeria went beyond ethnic and political considerations.

A statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, said Akpabio recalled his personal relationship with the late elder statesman, noting that Tukur had, among other engagements, chaired an event he attended in London in 2009.

According to Akpabio, Tukur left behind a legacy of love, wisdom and service to the nation.

He said the late elder statesman would continue to serve as an example to younger politicians and Nigerians, adding that his contributions to national development would remain memorable.

Akpabio expressed regret that Tukur was no longer alive to continue sharing his wealth of experience and wisdom with the younger generation.

He also disclosed that the National Assembly would honour the late elder statesman on the floor of the Senate when it resumes.

The Senate President urged Tukur’s children to continue in their father’s footsteps and uphold the values for which he was known.

Responding on behalf of the family, one of the deceased’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. Bamanga Tukur died at the age of 90 on Saturday, 12 September 2026.