Kogi Mourns as Former Governor Ibrahim Idris D!es at 77

Former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, has died at the age of 77. Idris reportedly passed away in the United Kingdom on Sunday, September 20, 2026. His death was confirmed to AIT by his nephew, Shehu Ahmed, while further details surrounding the circumstances of his death were still being awaited.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the development has prompted condolences from political figures and officials in Kogi State. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and other government officials were reported to have visited the late former governor’s residence in Abuja to condole with his family.

Idris served as governor of Kogi State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party between 2003 and 2012, with his tenure interrupted after the courts nullified his 2007 re-election and ordered a fresh election. He first assumed office on May 29, 2003, after defeating the then-incumbent governor, Prince Abubakar Audu.

He was re-elected in 2007, but the result was subsequently nullified following a legal challenge relating to the exclusion of Audu from the election. Idris later contested the March 2008 re-run election and returned as governor, remaining in office until January 2012.

During his time in office, Idris’ administration was associated with several infrastructure and development projects across the state, including the Confluence Stadium, Greater Lokoja Water Scheme, housing projects, road construction, and investments in education and healthcare. His administration also played a role in the development of Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba.

Born in 1949 in Idah, Kogi State, Idris was a businessman before venturing into politics. He founded Ibro Trading Company, with interests in construction, furniture manufacturing and hospitality, and also established a furniture factory and the Ibro Hotel.

The former governor’s death comes about two years after he lost his son, Mohammed Ibrahim Idris, a former member of the House of Representatives representing Ankpa/Olamaboro/Omala Federal Constituency. Mohammed died in Abuja in April 2024 at the age of 55.

Ibrahim Idris’ nearly nine-year tenure made him one of the longest-serving elected governors in Kogi State’s history. His death at 77 marks the passing of a prominent figure in the state’s political history.