Former Kogi State Governor, Ibrahim Idris, has died at the age of 77, with Governor Usman Ododo declaring three days of mourning in honour of the former governor.
Idris reportedly died in the United Kingdom on Sunday after years of public service in Kogi State and Nigeria.
Following the announcement, Ododo directed that the Nigerian and Kogi State flags be flown at half-mast across government offices and other designated public institutions in the state.
The governor also approved a state burial for Idris, with the Kogi State Government to take responsibility for the burial expenses and arrangements.
Ododo had earlier visited the residence of the deceased to condole with members of the Idris family.
In a condolence message, the governor described the death as a major loss to Kogi State and Nigeria, noting Idris’ contributions during his years in public office.
According to Ododo, the Idris administration recorded interventions in infrastructure, education, healthcare and other critical sectors.
“His years in public office formed an important chapter in the political and developmental journey of Kogi State,” Ododo said.
Idris was born in 1949 in Idah, Kogi State. He began his early education in Onitsha, Anambra State, before completing his primary education in Kano.
He later attended King’s Commercial College, Buguma, Rivers State, and obtained a law degree from the University of Abuja.
Before entering politics, Idris was a businessman and founded Ibro Trading Company, with interests spanning construction, furniture manufacturing and hospitality.
He was elected governor of Kogi State in 2003 on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party.
Following a legal challenge to the 2007 governorship election, Idris 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.
Ododo prayed that Allah would forgive the late governor’s shortcomings and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.
Further details on the burial arrangements are expected from the family and the Kogi State Government.