A former Kogi state governor, Ibrahim Idris has died at the age of 77.
Idris died in the United Kingdom on Sunday.
A statement by the Kogi state Commissioner of Information Kingsley Fanwo, indicated that former Governor Yahya Bello and incumbent governor Usman Ododo with other dignitaries, paid a condolence visit to the ex governor’s home in Abuja on Sunday.
The Kogi state governor has declared a three days mourning in the state, and directed that the Nigerian and Kogi state flags be flown at half mast across all government institutions.
In a condolence letter addressed to the family of the late Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, Governor Ododo said the death of the former Governor had robbed the State of an eminent son who devoted a significant part of his life to the service of the people.
The Governor also declared that the late former Governor would receive a State Burial, with the Kogi State Government taking full responsibility of all burial expenses.
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Governor Ododo noted that the administration of the late former Governor witnessed important interventions in infrastructure, education, healthcare and other critical sectors, adding that the impact of his years in office would remain part of the development history of Kogi State.
“His years in public office formed an important chapter in the political and developmental journey of Kogi State,” Governor Ododo said, urging the family to draw strength from the enduring memories of his service and the positive impact he made on the lives of many people.
Idris served as governor of Kogi State from 2003 to 2012, first taking office in May 2003 and serving a second term after the 2007 election. He was succeeded by Idris Wada in January 2012.
Before becoming governor, Idris was a renowned businessman and founder of Ibro Trading Company, with ventures spanning hospitality, construction, and furniture manufacturing. He founded the popular Ibro Hotels.
The late Idris who was popularly known as Ibro, was born on April 6, 1949, in Idah, Kogi State, north central Nigeria.
He completed his primary and secondary education in different parts of Nigeria and earned a bachelor’s degree in Law from the University of Abuja.
Idris won the governorship seat under the then ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
His administration saw a surge in infrastructure development in the state, such as the Greater Lokoja Water Scheme, which is now popularly called “Ibro water”, the construction of housing units for civil servants, road projects, school blocks, and the Lokoja International Market.
