OurWorldGistNews
Former Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Kogi State and Senior Technical Adviser to the Governor on Inter-Party Coordination, Hon. Ugbede J. Paul Ebije, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, popularly known as “Ibro.” Alhaji Ibrahim Idris died on Sunday, September 20, 2026, in London, United Kingdom, at the age of 77, following a brief illness, according to a statement by his family.
In a condolence statement, Hon. Ebije sent to OURWORLDGIST, he described the late former governor as his “father, leader and mentor,” saying the news of his passing was received with rude shock and profound sadness.
According to him, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris was more than a governor to him, but a father figure who believed in his abilities and provided him with the opportunity to serve the people of Kogi State.
“Governor Ibro is no more, but his legacy remains valid.
He was more than a Governor to me; he was a father figure who believed in me and gave me the opportunity to serve our dear state,” Ebije stated.
The former commissioner described the death as a personal loss and a significant loss to Kogi State, noting that the late governor occupied an important place in the political and developmental history of the state.
He described Alhaji Ibrahim Idris as a political leader, philanthropist and man of peace whose years of public service left enduring memories among many people across Kogi State.
Alhaji Ibrahim Idris served as Governor of Kogi State from 2003 to 2012, during which his administration was associated with interventions in infrastructure, education, healthcare and other sectors.
The Kogi State Government has also declared a three-day mourning period in his honour and announced that he would receive a state burial.
Ebije extended his heartfelt condolences to the late former governor’s family, children, the people of Idah Kingdom, political associates, friends and the entire people of Kogi State.
He prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive the shortcomings of the deceased, grant him Al-Jannatul Firdaus and give his family and all those mourning his passing the strength to bear the irreparable loss.
“Rest in peace, my leader,” Ebije concluded.
Hon. Ugbede J. Paul Ebije
Former Commissioner for Culture & Tourism,
Kogi State
