Bako retired in 1975 after the coup that brought General Murtala Muhammed to power, and began farming in Sokoto State. He died in 1980 leaving a widow and eleven children. After his death, the Tiga dam was renamed the Audu Bako dam. The Audu Bako prize is awarded each year to the winner of the Kano International Polo Tournament. Bako was widely respected, and was considered an example of moral integrity.