Former Kogi State Governor Ibrahim Idris Dies at 77

Former Governor of Kogi State Ibrahim Idris died Sunday, September 20, 2026, in the United Kingdom at the age of 77. Family sources confirmed that Idris had been battling a protracted illness, though official causes of death were not released. Born in 1949 in Idah, Idris was a businessman and founder of Ibro Trading Company before entering politics.

Idris served as governor from 2003 to 2012, making him the longest-serving governor in the history of Kogi State. His tenure was marked by the construction of the Greater Lokoja Water Scheme, the Confluence Stadium, and various health and education projects. His time in office also became the subject of a landmark Supreme Court ruling regarding the constitutional tenure of governors after annulled elections.

Following the announcement, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and former Governor Yahaya Bello visited the residence of the deceased in Abuja to condole with the family. Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan described the death as a "profound loss to Kogi State, the Peoples Democratic Party and indeed Nigeria," noting that his career represented a significant chapter in the political evolution of the state.