Bamanga Tukur, A Nationalist – Sen. Akpabio

Nelson Utip

Senator Godswill Akpabio,  the Senate President has described the late Elderstatesman and former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP , Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, as a Nationalist whose contributions to the country transcended ethnic and political boundaries.

Akpabio, who arrived Nigeria from Italy on Monday said this while on a condolence visit to the family of the late former governor of the defunct Gongola State on Tuesday. He described the late Tukur as “a detribalised Nigerian, great patriot and towering national figure whose contributions to the country transcended ethnic and political boundaries.”

A statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, disclosed how Akpabio recalled his personal relationship with the late elder statesman, he noted that Tukur had, among other engagements, chaired an event he attended in London in 2009.

“The late Tukur left behind a legacy of love, wisdom and service to the nation and would continue to serve as an example to younger politicians and Nigerians.” The statement read in part.

Akpabio regretted  that Tukur was no longer alive to continue sharing his wealth of experience and wisdom, adding that his contributions to national development would remain memorable.

He further disclosed that the National Assembly would honour the late elder statesman on the floor of the Senate when it resumes, while urging Tukur’s children to continue in their father’s footsteps and uphold the values for which he was known.

In his response on behalf of the family,  Mahmoud Tukur , one of the diseased son thanked the President of Senate, his wife, Mrs Unoma Akpabio and his entourage for the condolence visit.

He also appreciated President Bola Tinubu and Nigerians for honouring and remembering his father, who died at the age of 90 on Saturday, September 12, 2026.