Bamanga Tukur Dies At 90 After Decades In Public Service

Former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, 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 politician as its beloved father and patriarch, saying he devoted his life to his family, community, Adamawa State and Nigeria. It said details of his Janazah, or funeral prayer, and other burial arrangements would be announced later.

Tukur, who was born on September 15, 1935, died only three days before his 91st birthday. His death brings to an end the life of a public figure who spent several decades moving between politics, government, business and public administration.

Before becoming a major figure in the PDP, Tukur had already held several important positions in Nigeria. He served as governor of the old Gongola State and later became Minister of Industries during the military administration of the late General Sani Abacha.

He also served as General Manager and Chief Executive of the Nigerian Ports Authority, giving him a significant role in one of the country’s most important economic institutions. Beyond government, he was involved in business and African economic advocacy.

Tukur’s biggest political role came in March 2012 when he became National Chairman of the PDP under the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan. His period as party chairman coincided with one of the most difficult periods in the party’s history.

The PDP faced growing internal disagreements during his tenure, including the emergence of the New PDP faction in 2013. The divisions created serious pressure within the ruling party at the time and contributed to the political tensions that eventually led to changes in its leadership.

Tukur resigned as national chairman in January 2014 after less than two years in the position. He was later appointed Ambassador-at-Large by the Jonathan administration, continuing his involvement in national affairs after leaving the party leadership.

His political career was therefore not limited to one office or one administration. From the old Gongola State government to the federal cabinet, the Nigerian Ports Authority and the leadership of one of Nigeria’s biggest political parties, Tukur remained a familiar name in the country’s public life for decades.

His death is expected to trigger tributes from political leaders, former colleagues and members of the PDP who worked with him during his years in government and party politics. The family has meanwhile asked for prayers and expressed appreciation to those who have offered condolences.

Tukur’s passing also marks the departure of one of the politicians who witnessed several stages of Nigeria’s political development, from the military era to the return and consolidation of democratic rule.

The former PDP chairman would have turned 91 on September 15. His family said he died after a lifetime of service to his family, community, Adamawa State and Nigeria.

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