From HASSAN SHALLPELLA, Yola
Former Governor of the defunct Gongola State and former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, has died at the age of 90.
Tukur died on Saturday after a brief illness, according to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, Humwashi Wonosikou.
Fintiri, in the statement, described the former governor as an elder statesman, accomplished businessman and distinguished politician whose contributions to Adamawa State and Nigeria spanned public service, business and politics.
The governor also declared three days of mourning across Adamawa State in honour of Tukur, directing that government flags be flown at half-mast throughout the period.
Fintiri described Tukur’s death as a monumental loss to Adamawa State and Nigeria, citing his courage, foresight, patriotism and commitment to public service.
“Alhaji Bamanga Tukur was a colossus who made remarkable contributions to the development of Adamawa State and Nigeria.
“His wealth of experience, wisdom and commitment to public service earned him a place of honour in our national history,” Fintiri said.
The governor said he would personally miss Tukur’s counsel and experience on matters concerning the state and the country.
“I will personally miss his wise counsel and the depth of experience he brought to matters concerning our state and nation. His passing has left a significant void that will be difficult to fill,” he said.
Fintiri extended his condolences to Tukur’s immediate family, friends, associates and the people of Adamawa State, urging them to draw strength from his legacy of service and leadership.
He prayed that Almighty Allah forgive Tukur’s shortcomings, grant him Aljannah Firdaus and give his family and loved ones the fortitude to bear the loss.