Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has paid tribute to former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, describing his death as a loss to Nigeria and Africa.
Adebayo, in a condolence message issued on Saturday, described the late elder statesman as an accomplished administrator, businessman and politician whose decades of public service left a significant mark on the country.
He said Tukur devoted a substantial part of his life to Nigeria and Africa through his contributions to public administration, business, politics, leadership and continental development.
Reflecting on his personal relationship with the former PDP chairman, Adebayo said he had the opportunity to work with Tukur through his investments in Adamawa State and initiatives connected to indigenous shipping and the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD).
“Personally, I have had the privilege of working with this true and illustrious Nigerian statesman through my investments in his beloved state of Adamawa, particularly in the promotion of indigenous shipping and the implementation of the mandate of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) under his leadership,” Adebayo said.
The SDP candidate said Tukur’s experience and achievements made him an important figure in Nigeria’s political and economic history.
He extended his condolences to Tukur’s family, the government and people of Adamawa State, as well as the deceased’s friends, associates and others mourning his passing.
According to Adebayo, Nigeria has lost “an experienced leader and statesman of remarkable accomplishment.”
He also expressed hope that Tukur’s legacy would continue to encourage younger generations to contribute to national development and the service of humanity.
Also Read: Cross River: Police detain theatre assistant over hernia surgery
Adebayo prayed for strength and comfort for the bereaved family and loved ones, while asking Almighty God to grant the former PDP chairman eternal rest.
Tukur reportedly died after a brief illness. He was 90.
The former governor of the defunct Gongola State also served as national chairman of the PDP and held several positions during a long career spanning public administration, business and politics.