A wave of grief has swept through the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) following the death of Zamani Tanko, a trusted aide and close associate of Senator Seriake Dickson.
Tanko, a retired Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), reportedly died after being involved in a road accident in Abuja. He was rushed to the National Hospital but later succumbed to injuries despite efforts by medical personnel to save him.
Announcing the tragedy, Senator Dickson described Tanko as more than an aide, calling him a brother and a member of his family.
“It is with deep sadness that I announce the sudden passing of my beloved aide, DSP Zamani Tanko (Rtd), who over the years became a brother and member of my family,” Dickson said.
According to the former Bayelsa State governor, Tanko served Nigeria in the police force for 35 years before working closely with him for the past 15 years, handling security and administrative responsibilities.
Dickson Recounts Final Moments
Dickson explained that he received an urgent call informing him that Tanko had been involved in a collision with a truck in Abuja.
The senator said members of his team rushed the injured aide to the hospital before he personally joined them. Although surgeons carried out emergency procedures, Tanko could not survive.
“We made arrangements for prompt medical treatment, but unfortunately after surgery by a team of surgeons, we later received the devastating news that he could not make it,” Dickson stated.
The senator added that the loss has left his family and staff deeply devastated.
Peter Obi Pays Condolence Visit
Shortly after news of the death broke, NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi visited Dickson in Abuja to offer condolences.
Obi later described Tanko’s death as a painful loss and prayed for God to grant him eternal rest.
“May God Almighty who called him home grant him eternal rest in His kingdom and continue to bless his family always,” Obi said.
Kwankwaso, Party Leaders Join Mourning
NDC vice-presidential candidate Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso also visited Dickson to sympathise with him over the tragedy.
The NDC national chairman, Senator Moses Cleopas, led members of the party’s National Working Committee on a condolence visit, while veteran politician Buba Galadima and other party stakeholders also paid tribute.
Dickson expressed gratitude to everyone who reached out during the difficult period.
A Career of Service
Before joining Dickson’s team, Tanko spent 35 years in the Nigeria Police Force. Following retirement, he became one of Dickson’s closest aides, serving for 15 years and earning a reputation for loyalty and dedication.
His death comes barely a day after another loss within the Obidient movement, as Edo State Obidient leader Benedict Inaede was also reported dead.
Reactions
The news triggered emotional reactions from supporters and political observers:
Amina Suleiman: “Fifteen years of service is not a small thing. May his soul rest in peace.”
Chukwuemeka Eze: “Peter Obi’s visit shows the bond among opposition leaders. Condolences to the family.”
Kabiru Musa: “Very sad. Road accidents continue to claim valuable lives in Nigeria.”
Grace Omoregie: “May God comfort Senator Dickson and the entire Tanko family.”
Ibrahim Lawal: “A retired police officer who served his country and continued serving afterward. A life of dedication.”
Tanko is expected to be buried according to family arrangements, while tributes continue to pour in from political associates, friends, and supporters across the country.
