Goodbye, Bamanga Tukur: Former PDP Chairman Dies at 90
Reported By Facthabournews
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, with his family confirming his death. He was born on September 15, 1935, meaning he died just three days before his 91st birthday.
The former PDP chairman was a prominent Nigerian politician, businessman, administrator and elder statesman whose career spanned several decades and included senior positions in government, politics and the private sector.
Family members described Tukur as a beloved father and patriarch who dedicated much of his life to his family, community, Adamawa State and Nigeria. The family also expressed appreciation to Nigerians and others for their prayers, condolences and support following his passing. Details of his Janazah and burial arrangements are expected to be communicated by the family.
Tukur began his rise to national prominence through public service. He served as General Manager and Chief Executive of the Nigerian Ports Authority between 1975 and 1982, a period during which he played a significant role in the administration of Nigeria’s maritime sector.
He later ventured into electoral politics and became governor of the old Gongola State during the Second Republic. His tenure was cut short by the military coup of December 1983, which ended the civilian government.
Following his time as governor, Tukur continued to play a significant role in Nigeria’s public and business affairs. He later served as Minister of Industries under the military administration of former Head of State, General Sani Abacha, from 1993 to 1995.
Beyond Nigerian politics, Tukur was also active in continental business and economic affairs. He founded BHI Holdings, also known as the Daddo Group, and was associated with the Africa Business Roundtable, where he served as founder, president and life patron.
He also served as Chairman of the NEPAD Business Group and held prominent positions in international maritime and African economic organisations. His activities extended beyond Nigeria, making him a recognised figure in African business and economic circles.
Tukur’s most prominent political role in the later years of his career came in March 2012 when he was elected National Chairman of the PDP during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.
His tenure as national chairman occurred during one of the most turbulent periods in the history of the opposition party. The PDP faced significant internal disagreements, including the emergence of the breakaway “New PDP” faction in 2013.
Tukur eventually resigned as national chairman in January 2014 following months of internal party disagreements. He remained an influential figure in Nigerian political and public life after leaving the position.
He also held traditional titles in Adamawa State, including Tafidan Adamawa and Wakilin Ganye, reflecting his standing within the state.
His educational background included a master’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh in the United States, while Benue State University later awarded him an honorary doctorate in law.
Tukur’s death comes at a significant time in Nigerian politics, with political parties already preparing for the 2027 general elections. His long involvement in the PDP and broader Nigerian political affairs made him a figure whose career was closely connected with several important periods in the country’s political history.
His passing is expected to generate reactions from political leaders, the PDP, former government officials, business leaders and other Nigerians who interacted with him during his long public career.
Tributes are expected to focus on his contributions to public administration, politics, business development and national life, as well as his influence in Adamawa State and the wider Nigerian political landscape.
The family has asked for prayers and support as it mourns the death of the former PDP national chairman and elder statesman.
As Nigeria mourns Bamanga Tukur, attention will now turn to the funeral arrangements and tributes from political parties, governments, traditional institutions and other prominent Nigerians.
Tukur leaves behind a long public-service record spanning the Nigerian Ports Authority, state government, federal government, political party leadership and continental business organisations.
His death marks the passing of one of the prominent figures who played significant roles in Nigeria’s political and economic affairs across different eras.
