Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has declared Monday, September 14, 2026, a work-free day in honour of the late elder statesman and former Gongola State governor, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur.
The declaration was announced by the governor as part of measures to enable residents of the state to mourn the former governor and pay their respects following his death.
According to a statement signed by Humwashi Wonosikou, Chief Press Secretary to the governor, the work-free day forms part of a three-day mourning period declared by the Adamawa State Government. Flags across the state are expected to fly at half-mast during the mourning period.
Tukur, who was also a former national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was buried in Yola on Sunday, September 13, following funeral prayers held at the Lamido’s Palace.
Governor Fintiri described the late statesman as an important figure whose contributions extended beyond Adamawa State to the development of Nigeria.
He urged residents to use the work-free day to pray for the peaceful repose of Tukur’s soul and to support his family and associates during the period of mourning.
The governor also extended condolences to members of Tukur’s family and the people of Adamawa, acknowledging the significance of the loss to the state.
Although government offices are affected by the declaration, essential services are expected to continue during the period to ensure that critical public functions are not disrupted.
Tukur was a prominent figure in Nigeria’s political and economic history. He served as governor of the former Gongola State and later held other national positions, including Minister of Industries.
He also served as national chairman of the PDP, one of Nigeria’s major political parties, and remained active in public affairs after leaving elective office.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar was among those who mourned the death of the elder statesman. Atiku described Tukur as a member of a generation of Nigerians who regarded public service as a responsibility rather than a means of personal gain.
The funeral in Yola attracted political leaders, government officials, community leaders and other dignitaries who gathered to pay their final respects to the deceased.
The Adamawa Government’s decision to declare a work-free day underscores the significance attached to Tukur’s contribution to the state and the wider country.
The mourning period is expected to provide residents with an opportunity to honour the late statesman and reflect on his decades of involvement in Nigeria’s political and public life.
