The Northern Senators Forum (NSF) has mourned the death of former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, describing him as a patriot and statesman whose contributions to Kogi State and Nigeria would be remembered.
In a condolence message signed by the forum’s Chairman, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’adua, the northern senators expressed sympathy with the Kogi State Government, the Igala people, the Idris family, as well as the late governor’s friends and political associates.
The forum said Idris, popularly known as “Ibro,” dedicated much of his life to public service and the development of Kogi State.
It described his death as a loss to both Kogi State and Nigeria, citing his years of public service, leadership and involvement in national affairs.
The senators noted that before entering partisan politics in 2003, Idris had built a successful business career spanning several decades.
According to the forum, he established Ibro Trading Company and developed interests in furniture manufacturing, construction, hospitality, property and general commerce.
His business ventures included a furniture factory in Sokoto and the Ibro Hotel, which the senators said contributed to employment creation and community development.
Idris served as governor of Kogi State from 2003 to 2012, making him the state’s longest-serving governor.
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The forum recalled that his administration focused on infrastructure development and interventions in areas including water supply, education, healthcare and road construction.
The senators also noted that Idris remained active and influential within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the wider Nigerian political space after leaving office.
They said his relationships across different parts of the country reflected what they described as his broad national outlook.
The forum said, “Igala has lost a patriot; Kogi has lost an elder statesman; and Nigeria has lost a believer in the Nigerian project.”
The senators extended their condolences to the Kogi State Government, the Igala Kingdom, the Idris family and members of the PDP.
They prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive Idris’ shortcomings, reward his good deeds and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.
The forum also prayed for strength and fortitude for his family, the people of Kogi State and other Nigerians mourning his death.