By John Alechenu
ABUJA — Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, has mourned former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, popularly known as Ibro, who died in the United Kingdom on Sunday.
In a condolence message, Akpoti-Uduaghan described the former governor and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, as a major figure in the political history of Kogi State.
She said his death was painful, coming at a time when the state and the PDP could still benefit from his experience.
The senator said, “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.”
Idris served as governor of Kogi State from 2003 to 2012 on the platform of the PDP, defeating the then incumbent governor, Prince Abubakar Audu, in the 2003 election.
His 2007 election victory was later nullified by the courts, but he won the subsequent re-run in 2008 and completed his tenure in January 2012. He was succeeded by Captain Idris Wada.
Akpoti-Uduaghan said Idris’ political career remained an important chapter in the evolution of Kogi, particularly during the period when the PDP dominated the state’s political landscape.
“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 commiserated with the late former governor’s family, political associates and the people of Kogi State.
“During this difficult moment, my thoughts and prayers are with the Idris family. Losing a father, husband, grandfather, political mentor and community leader is never easy.
“I pray that Almighty Allah grants his family the strength to bear this irreparable loss and grants our late leader eternal rest,” she said.
Idris, who was a businessman before venturing fully into politics, had interests in general merchandise, furniture manufacturing, construction and hospitality.
During his tenure as governor, his administration embarked on several projects, including the International Market, Specialist Hospital, Confluence Stadium, Greater Lokoja Water Scheme, housing estates, road projects and investments in education.
Akpoti-Uduaghan further said leadership should be measured by its impact on people and institutions.
She said, “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.
“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.”
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