President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has described the late Elderstatesman and former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, as a detribalised Nigerian whose contributions to the country transcended ethnic and political boundaries.
Akpabio, who arrived Nigeria from Italy yesterday, stated 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 by his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, disclosed how Akpabio recalled his personal relationship with the late elder statesman, noting 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.” 
He expressed regret 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.
Akpabio also 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.
Responding on behalf of the family, one of the deceased’s sons, Mahmoud Tukur, thanked the President of the Senate, his wife, Mrs Unoma Akpabio and his entourage for the condolence visit.
Mahmoud also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and Nigerians for honouring and remembering his father, who died at the age of 90 on Saturday, September 12, 2026.
