President Tinubu Expresses Profound Grief Over Ex-Kogi Governor Ibrahim Idris's Passing

President Bola Tinubu has conveyed his deep sorrow regarding the demise of Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, the former Governor of Kogi State, characterizing his passing as a 'painful loss' for his family, Kogi State, and the entire nation. Alhaji Idris, who was 77 years old, breathed his last in the United Kingdom on Sunday.

PUNCH Online had previously reported on the former governor's death, which prompted an outpouring of tributes from various political figures. Among them was the current Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo, who promptly declared a three-day period of mourning in honour of the deceased.

In an official statement released on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences. His message was directed to the Idris family, the government and citizens of Kogi State, as well as the late governor’s wide network of friends, associates, and political contemporaries.

The President underscored the significance of Idris’s death as a major loss for Kogi State and Nigeria, emphasizing that the former governor dedicated a considerable portion of his life to public service and the advancement of the state.

“Alhaji Ibrahim Idris was a committed public servant whose years in office formed an important chapter in the political and developmental history of Kogi State. His passing is a painful loss to his family, Kogi State and Nigeria. At this difficult moment, we must remember and honour his contributions to the growth of his state and our nation. I extend my deepest condolences to his family and the people of Kogi State. May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Aljannah Firdaus,” President Tinubu stated.

The statement further highlighted that Alhaji Idris served as the chief executive of Kogi State between 2003 and 2012. During his tenure, his administration spearheaded notable interventions across crucial sectors such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare. President Tinubu also recognized Idris’s enduring contributions to Nigeria’s democratic growth and his consistent engagement in public affairs throughout the years.

Concluding his message, the President offered prayers, asking Almighty Allah to grant the bereaved family the necessary strength and fortitude to cope with their profound loss. This condolence message from the presidency followed a day after PUNCH Online’s initial report on Idris’s passing in the UK at the age of 77.