FORMER Kogi State Governor, Ibrahim Idris, has died at the age of 77.
Idris, who governed Kogi State from 2003 to 2012, reportedly died in the United Kingdom on Sunday. Following his death, the incumbent Governor, Usman Ododo, declared a three-day mourning period in honour of the former governor and directed that the national and Kogi State flags be flown at half-mast across government offices and other designated public institutions in the state.
Ododo also announced that Idris would receive a state burial, with the Kogi State Government taking full responsibility for the burial expenses and making the necessary arrangements.
The governor had earlier visited the residence of the late former governor, where he commiserated with members of the Idris family.
In a condolence letter to the family, Ododo described Idris’ death as a profound loss to Kogi State and Nigeria, saying the former governor had devoted a significant part of his life to serving the people.
According to the governor, Idris’ administration witnessed interventions in infrastructure, education, healthcare and other critical sectors, which contributed to the development and institutional growth of the state.
Ododo said the late former governor would also be remembered for his commitment to the responsibilities entrusted to him by the people.
“His years in public office formed an important chapter in the political and developmental journey of Kogi State,” Governor Ododo said.
He urged the Idris family to draw strength from the memories of his service and the impact he had on the lives of many people.
Ododo, on behalf of the Kogi State Government and people, expressed condolences to the Idris family, friends and associates of the deceased.
He prayed that Almighty Allah would forgive Idris’ shortcomings, grant him Aljannatul Firdaus and give the family and the people of Kogi State the strength to bear the loss.
Born in 1949 in Idah, Kogi State, Idris began his early education in Onitsha, Anambra State, before moving to Kano, where he completed his primary education.
He later attended King’s Commercial College in Buguma, Rivers State, and obtained a bachelor’s degree in Law from the University of Abuja.
Before entering politics, Idris was a businessman and founded Ibro Trading Company, with interests in construction, furniture manufacturing and hospitality.
He was elected governor of Kogi State in 2003 on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party and served his first term until 2008.
Following a legal challenge to the 2007 governorship election, he returned to office after winning the March 2008 re-run election.
He remained governor until January 2012, when he was succeeded by Captain Idris Wada.
Further details about his death and burial arrangements are expected from the family and the Kogi State Government.