By Anayo Akwitti
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has described the late former Gongola State governor and former PDP National Chairman, Bamanga Tukur, as a “detribalised Nigerian” and patriot whose contributions transcended ethnic and political boundaries.
Akpabio spoke on Tuesday during a condolence visit to Tukur’s family. The elder statesman died at the age of 90 on September 12, 2026.
According to a statement by Akpabio’s Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, the Senate President described Tukur as a “towering national figure” whose life was marked by love, wisdom and service to Nigeria.
Akpabio recalled his relationship with Tukur, including an event the former governor chaired in London in 2009.
He said Tukur’s contributions to Nigeria’s development would remain memorable, adding that his legacy would serve as an example to younger politicians and Nigerians.
Akpabio also disclosed that the National Assembly would honour Tukur on the floor of the Senate when plenary resumes.
He urged Tukur’s children to uphold their father’s values and continue his legacy.
Responding on behalf of the family, one of Tukur’s sons, Mahmoud Tukur, thanked Akpabio, his wife, Unoma Akpabio, and members of his delegation for the condolence visit.
Mahmoud also appreciated President Bola Tinubu and Nigerians for honouring and remembering his father.
