Oyo State Governor and Allied Peoples Movement (APM) presidential candidate, Mr Seyi Makinde, has expressed profound grief over the death of a former PDP National Chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur.
Makinde, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communications, Anthony Ehilebo, on Saturday in Abuja, said Tukur dedicated his intellect and resources to the unity, stability and democratic progress of Nigeria, Africa and the wider world.
While describing the former old Gongola State governor as a national icon and global torchbearer, the governor praised him for bestriding both the business and political worlds like a colossus.
He acknowledged Tukur’s monumental contributions to Nigeria’s development.
“Alhaji Tukur stood tall as an awe-inspiring personality and leader, a national icon and global torchbearer who bestrode the business and political worlds like a colossus.
“He played indellible roles and made immeasurable legacy contributions, dedicating his intellect, expertise, personal resources and energy to the unity, stability and economic and democratic development of not only our dear nation, Nigeria, but of Africa and the wider world,” he said.
Makinde also praised the elder statesman’s extensive public service record which, he said, included roles as General Manager of Nigerian Ports Authority, Minister of Industries, National Chairman of PDP and Life Patron of African Business Roundtable (ABR).
He said that Tukur demonstrated unmatched integrity, vision and excellence throughout his career.
“Indeed, a star has passed. Our nation, Africa and humanity have lost one of our best and brightest,” he remarked.
He expressed deep pain that the former governor passed away at a critical time when his wealth of experience, wise counsel, tutelage and prayers were needed the most.
He extended his condolences to the Tukur family and the government and people of Adamawa, praying Allah to grant the departed aljannah firdaus.
