Natasha mourns ex-Kogi gov Idris

The Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has mourned the death of former Kogi State Governor and Peoples Democratic Party leader, Ibrahim Idris, popularly known as Ibro. Idris died in the United Kingdom on Sunday, September 20, 2026, throwing his family, political associates, members of the PDP and people across Kogi State into mourning. In a condolence statement issued in Abuja, Akpoti-Uduaghan described the late governor as a significant figure in the political history of Kogi State and the PDP, saying his years in public service left an enduring mark on the state. She said the news of his death was painful, particularly at a time when Kogi State and the PDP family could still benefit from his experience, wisdom and knowledge of the state’s political history. “The passing of His Excellency, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, is a profound loss to Kogi State, the Peoples Democratic Party and indeed Nigeria. He was a major political figure whose years of service contributed to the political development of our state,” she said. Idris governed Kogi State from 2003 to 2012 on the platform of the PDP. He defeated the then-incumbent governor, Abubakar Audu, in the 2003 governorship election and was re-elected in 2007. His second-term election was later nullified following a legal challenge, after which he returned to office after winning the March 2008 re-run election.See more Punch stories on Google.Add Punch on Google He completed his tenure in January 2012 and was succeeded by Captain Idris Wada. Akpoti-Uduaghan said Idris’s political career represented an important chapter in the evolution of Kogi State, particularly during the period the PDP wielded considerable influence in the state. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan “Beyond the office he occupied, Ibro represented a generation of political leaders whose experiences, relationships and contributions helped shape Kogi’s political history. Ex-Kogi gov Ibrahim Idris dies in UK Ex-Edo lawmaker tackles Dino Melaye over Atiku petition 2027: Over 6,000 NDC members defect to PDP in Enugu “His departure creates a significant vacuum, and his contributions will remain part of the historical narrative of our dear state,” she said. The senator also commiserated with members of Idris’s family, his political associates, friends and the people of Kogi State. “During this difficult moment, my thoughts and prayers are with the Idris family. Losing a father, husband, grandfather, political mentor and community leader is never easy. “I pray that Almighty Allah grants his family the strength to bear this irreparable loss and grants our late leader eternal rest,” she added. Born in 1949 in Idah, Kogi State, Idris had a business background before venturing into politics. He established Ibro Trading Company and had interests in construction, furniture manufacturing and hospitality. His administration was also associated with infrastructure and development projects across the state, including the International Market, Specialist Hospital, Confluence Stadium, Greater Lokoja Water Scheme, housing projects, road works and investments in education infrastructure. Akpoti-Uduaghan said the late governor’s legacy should be viewed within the broader context of public service and the development of Kogi State. “Leadership is ultimately measured by the lives touched, institutions strengthened and opportunities created for future generations. “As we mourn His Excellency Ibrahim Idris, we must also remember the chapter he wrote in the history of Kogi State and the lessons his journey offers to those of us entrusted with public responsibility. “May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus. May He also grant the Idris family, the PDP family and the people of Kogi State the fortitude to bear this great loss. His memory will remain with us,” she said. Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis The PUNCH journalist, Adebayo, has over 20 years of experience covering politics, health, metro, entertainment and properties

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