TD Former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Bamanga Mohammed Tukur, has died at the age of 90.
Tukur died on Saturday, September 12, 2026, according to a statement issued by his family and signed by his son, Awwal D. Tukur.
The family described the former PDP chairman as its “beloved father and patriarch,” saying he lived a life devoted to his family, community, Adamawa State and Nigeria.
“It is with profound sadness and total submission to the will of Almighty Allah that the family announces the passing of our beloved father and patriarch, Alhaji Bamanga Mohammed Tukur, who returned to his Creator today 12th September 2026,” the family statement said.
The family added that details of the Janazah (Islamic funeral prayer) and other burial arrangements would be announced later.
Tinubu Mourns Bamanga Tukur
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mourned Tukur’s death, describing him as a prominent figure whose career spanned public administration, governance, industry, politics and African business leadership.
Tinubu described the late elder statesman as a “towering figure” and commended his contributions to Nigeria’s maritime sector, politics and economic development.
Six Decades of Public Service
Born on September 15, 1935, Tukur would have turned 91 three days after his death.
He served as General Manager and Chief Executive of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) from 1975 to 1982, before entering frontline politics.
Tukur became governor of the former Gongola State in 1983, a state that was later divided into present-day Adamawa and Taraba states. His tenure was cut short by the military coup of December 1983.
He later served as Minister of Industries during the administration of the late General Sani Abacha.
Beyond government, Tukur built a significant business career and played prominent roles in African private-sector advocacy, including leadership positions in the African Business Roundtable and NEPAD Business Group.
Former PDP National Chairman
Tukur became National Chairman of the PDP in March 2012, during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.
His tenure coincided with a turbulent period in the ruling party, including the emergence of the New PDP faction in 2013.
He eventually resigned as national chairman in January 2014 and was subsequently appointed Ambassador-at-Large by the Jonathan administration.
His death has prompted tributes from political leaders, including Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, who described his passing as a major loss to the state and Nigeria. The governor also declared three days of mourning across Adamawa State, according to reports.
The death of Bamanga Tukur brings to an end the life of a prominent Nigerian politician, businessman and public servant whose career spanned more than six decades.
