Governor Ododo Declares Three-Day Mourning, Approves State Burial for Former Governor
Former Kogi State Governor Ibrahim Idris has died at the age of 77.
Idris, who governed the state from 2003 to 2012, reportedly died in the United Kingdom on Sunday.
Following his death, Governor Usman Ododo declared a three-day mourning period and directed that the Nigerian and Kogi State flags be flown at half-mast across government offices and designated public institutions.
Ododo also approved a state burial for the former governor, with the Kogi State Government to bear the burial expenses and coordinate the arrangements.
The governor had earlier visited the Idris family residence to offer his condolences.
In a condolence letter, Ododo described Idris’ death as a loss to Kogi State and Nigeria, noting his years of public service and contributions to infrastructure, education, healthcare and other sectors.
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 in 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 in construction, furniture manufacturing and hospitality.
He was elected governor of Kogi State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party in 2003 and served until 2012.
Following a legal challenge to the 2007 governorship election, he returned to office after winning the March 2008 re-run election.
Idris left office in January 2012 and was succeeded by Captain Idris Wada.
Further details on his death and burial arrangements are expected from the family and the Kogi State Government.