Former Kogi Governor Ibrahim Idris Dies in UK at 77
Former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, has died in the United Kingdom at the age of 77.
Idris reportedly died on Sunday, September 20, 2026. His death was confirmed by a family member, while reports from PUNCH, Channels Television and TheCable also confirmed the development.
The circumstances surrounding his death have not been officially disclosed.
Following the announcement, Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo visited the family of the late former governor at his residence in Abuja to offer his condolences.
Ododo subsequently declared three days of mourning in honour of Idris and directed that the Nigerian and Kogi State flags be flown at half-mast across government offices and other designated public institutions in the state.
The governor also announced that Idris would receive a state burial, with the Kogi State Government taking responsibility for the burial expenses and arrangements.
Idris was born in 1949 in Idah, Kogi State. Before entering politics, he was a businessman with interests including construction, furniture manufacturing and hospitality.
He was elected governor of Kogi State in 2003 on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), defeating the then incumbent governor, Abubakar Audu.
Idris was re-elected in 2007, but the election was later nullified following a legal challenge. A fresh governorship election was held in March 2008, which Idris won, allowing him to return to office. He remained governor until January 2012, when he was succeeded by Captain Idris Wada.
During his time in office, Idris’ administration was associated with projects and interventions in infrastructure, education, healthcare and other sectors. Governor Ododo said his years in public office formed an important part of Kogi State’s political and developmental history.
The former governor’s death has drawn condolences from political figures and associates, including Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who described his passing as a loss to Kogi State and the PDP.
Further details on the burial arrangements are expected from the Kogi State Government and the family.
