Akpoti-Uduaghan mourns former Kogi governor, Ibrahim Idris

From Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja

The senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has mourned the death of former Kogi State Governor and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, popularly known as Ibro.

Idris, who governed Kogi State from 2003 to 2012, died in the United Kingdom on Sunday, September 20, 2026.

In a condolence statement issued by her media office, Akpoti-Uduaghan described the late governor as a significant figure in Kogi State’s political history, saying his years in public service left an enduring mark on the state.

“The passing of His Excellency, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, is a profound loss to Kogi State, the Peoples Democratic Party and indeed Nigeria. He was a major political figure whose years of service contributed to the political development of our state,” she said.

Akpoti-Uduaghan said the former governor’s political journey represented an important chapter in the evolution of Kogi State, particularly during the period when the PDP wielded considerable political influence in the state.

“Beyond the office he occupied, Ibro represented a generation of political leaders whose experiences, relationships and contributions helped shape Kogi’s political history. His departure creates a significant vacuum, and his contributions will remain part of the historical narrative of our dear state,” she said.

The senator also recalled the late governor’s contributions to infrastructure and development during his tenure, including the International Market, Specialist Hospital, Confluence Stadium, Greater Lokoja Water Scheme, housing projects, road construction and investments in education infrastructure.

She said the impact of public service remained part of a state’s collective memory, urging political leaders to learn from the contributions and experiences of those who served before them.

“Leadership is ultimately measured by the lives touched, institutions strengthened and opportunities created for future generations. As we mourn His Excellency Ibrahim Idris, we must also remember the chapter he wrote in the history of Kogi State and the lessons his journey offers to those of us entrusted with public responsibility,” she stated.

Akpoti-Uduaghan extended her condolences to the Idris family, his political associates, friends and the people of Kogi State, praying for strength and comfort for the bereaved.

“May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus. May He also grant the Idris family, the PDP family and the people of Kogi State the fortitude to bear this great loss. His memory will remain with us,” she said.

Idris defeated the then incumbent governor, Prince Abubakar Audu, in the 2003 governorship election, but his 2007 re-election was nullified by the courts, leading to a re-run election in 2008, which he won.
He completed his tenure in January 2012 and was succeeded by Captain Idris Wada.