Former Deputy National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, has described the death of former PDP National Chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, as a monumental loss to Nigeria and the African business community.
New Telegraph had earlier reported that Tukur died on Saturday in Abuja, three days before his 91st birthday. He was buried on Sunday in Yola, Adamawa State.
In a condolence message, George, who said he worked closely with Tukur at the highest level of the PDP, described the late politician and businessman as a confidant, close ally and patriotic stakeholder whose interests transcended geographical boundaries.
According to him, Tukur, who was also a former Governor of the defunct Gongola State and former Minister of Industry, made significant contributions to Nigeria’s political and economic development over several decades.
“As the National Chairman of PDP from 2012 to 2014, I worked with him closely. He was a patriot who was always thinking of how Nigeria could sit comfortably in the comity of nations as an economic giant,” George said.
He commended Tukur’s contributions to African enterprise and investment through his leadership of the Africa Business Roundtable and the NEPAD Business Group.
George also recalled Tukur’s tenure as General Manager and Chief Executive of the Nigerian Ports Authority from 1975 to 1982, saying he contributed to the expansion of critical maritime facilities, including Apapa Port and Tin Can Island.
He said the former PDP chairman’s death had created a major void within the party and Nigeria’s broader political landscape.
“Your departure leaves an immense void not only within our party structure but across the entire political landscape,” George said.
He described Tukur as more than a political leader, noting that he was also a peacemaker, mentor and organiser who maintained contact with party members from the grassroots to the national level.
“During your tenure, you were more than a leader; you were a peacemaker, a mentor, and a tireless organiser who listened to every member, from the grassroots to the national level,” he said.
George said he took solace in the enduring legacy Tukur left behind, particularly his contributions to the PDP and the wider Nigerian political and economic space.
He extended his condolences to Tukur’s family, loved ones and members of the PDP, saying the late statesman had “run a good race” and left a legacy that would be difficult to replace.
“Our great leader, I say you ran a good race and ended well. Continue to rest in the bosom of the Almighty God,” George added.
