The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday paid tribute to Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, the former Governor of Kogi State, who passed away in the United Kingdom on September 20, 2026, at the age of 77. Senator Jibrin Isah moved the motion, describing Idris as a prominent political figure who played a significant role in Kogi's history. The Senate recalled his contributions to public service, business, and the development of Kogi State. Idris governed Kogi from 2003 to 2012 and established himself as a successful businessman before entering politics.
Idris built the Ibro business empire, with interests in construction, furniture manufacturing, and hospitality. He established a furniture factory in Sokoto and the Ibro Hotel. Senator Isah highlighted some projects associated with Idris's administration, including housing for civil servants, school infrastructure, the Lokoja International Market, the State Specialist Hospital, and the expansion of the Greater Lokoja Water Scheme. These projects have had a lasting impact on the state's development.
The former governor remains the longest-serving elected civilian governor in Kogi's history, having spent nearly nine years in office. Senator Aminu Tambuwal, representing Sokoto South, recalled Idris's years in Sokoto, describing his transition from business activities to the hotel industry and his deep roots in the state. Tambuwal's remarks highlighted Idris's connection to Sokoto and his contributions to the state's growth.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, also paid tribute to the late governor, recalling his interaction with Idris during his tenure as governor. Oshiomhole noted that Idris demonstrated concern for workers' welfare, recalling discussions over the payment of minimum wage when he was President of the Nigeria Labour Congress. Oshiomhole's remarks underscored Idris's commitment to workers' welfare and his role in promoting labour rights.
Senators Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, and Abba Moro, representing Benue South, joined colleagues in commiserating with the Idris family and the people of Kogi State. Akpoti-Uduaghan described the deceased as an important figure in Kogi's political history and extended her condolences to his family and the people of the state. The tributes from senators across different states demonstrated Idris's impact on the country's politics and development.
Idris was buried at the Gudu Cemetery, Abuja, after his death in the UK. The burial was attended by Governor Usman Ododo and former Kogi governors Yahaya Bello and Idris Wada, among other dignitaries. Senate President Godswill Akpabio called for a minute's silence in honour of the former governor, which the lawmakers observed. The Senate also resolved to convey its condolences to the family of the deceased.
Idris's death had earlier drawn condolences from President Bola Tinubu and other political leaders. Tinubu described him as a committed public servant whose years in office formed an important chapter in Kogi State's political and developmental history. The outpouring of tributes and condolences underscores Idris's legacy and impact on Nigeria's politics and development.
Key points
- The Nigerian Senate paid tribute to former Kogi Governor Ibrahim Idris, recalling his contributions to public service and development.
- Idris governed Kogi State from 2003 to 2012 and established himself as a successful businessman before entering politics.
- The former governor's legacy includes various development projects in Kogi State, such as housing, school infrastructure, and healthcare facilities.
