Former Kogi Governor Ibrahim Idris Dies in the UK at 77

Former Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ibrahim Idris has died in the United Kingdom at the age of 77.

Reports indicate that he passed away on Sunday, 20 September 2026. Details of the exact circumstances have not been officially released.

Following the news, Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, former Governor Yahaya Bello, and other senior officials visited the late governor’s residence in Abuja to condole with the family. The visit was announced by Onogwu Muhammed, Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Relations (and former Chief Press Secretary to Yahaya Bello), who shared photographs of the officials at the residence.

Idris served as Governor of Kogi State for nearly nine years under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He first took office in May 2003 after defeating the then-incumbent Abubakar Audu. His 2007 re-election was later nullified by the courts, but he returned to office after winning a re-run election in 2008 and completed his tenure in January 2012. He was succeeded by Captain Idris Wada.

Before entering politics, Idris was a businessman with interests in trading, furniture manufacturing, construction, and hospitality. During his time as governor, his administration was associated with various infrastructure and development projects across the state.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, described him as a significant figure in the political history of Kogi State and the PDP.

Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has declared a three-day mourning period, directed that flags be flown at half-mast, and announced that the late former governor will be accorded a state burial, with the state government taking responsibility for the arrangements.

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The death of Ibrahim Idris marks the end of an era for one of Kogi State’s longest-serving civilian governors. Further official statements from the family and the state government are expected in the coming days.

Sources: Reports from Punch, Daily Trust, Channels Television, and other Nigerian media outlets; public statements by Kogi State officials