Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri has declared Monday a work-free day in honour of the late Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, former governor of the defunct Gongola State.

Tukur, a prominent elder statesman and former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was buried in Yola on Sunday following funeral prayers held at the Lamido’s Palace.

Fintiri, in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Humwashi Wonosikou, said the declaration would allow residents to pay their final respects to the deceased and reflect on his contributions to the state and the country.

The governor described Tukur as a statesman whose contributions to the development and growth of Adamawa and Nigeria would remain memorable.

He urged residents to use the work-free day to pray for the repose of Tukur’s soul and seek comfort for his family, friends and the people of Adamawa.

Fintiri said the declaration formed part of measures taken by the state government during the three-day mourning period announced in honour of the late statesman.

He added that all flags across the state would remain at half-mast throughout the mourning period.

The governor, however, directed that essential services should continue to operate despite the declaration.

Tukur served as the third civilian governor of the defunct Gongola State and later occupied several prominent positions in Nigeria’s public and political spheres.

His burial in Yola on Sunday was attended by political associates, traditional rulers, family members, dignitaries and sympathisers who gathered to pay their final respects.