A political leader in Yagba-East, Mr Babatunde I. Agbana, has described the late former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, as a “pillar of strength and generosity” whose kindness reached far beyond the corridors of power.
Agbana, who is the Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Yagba-East, spoke in a tribute on behalf of his family, The Agbanas. It followed the announcement of the death of the former governor, popularly called “Ibro na Allah”.
Idris died on Sunday, September 20, 2026, in the United Kingdom, at the age of 77. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has declared a state burial for him, and the Kogi State Government will bear all burial expenses.
Agbana said the deceased was revered as a political leader and a Governor who “left indelible footprints on the soil of Kogi State” through infrastructure, peace-building and public service. Idris governed the state from 2003 to 2012.
To his family, Agbana said, the late Idris was “much more than a public figure.”
“He was a steadfast pillar, a dependable father, and an unwavering source of support through life’s most defining moments,” he said.
Agbana described the late governor as a man of “extraordinary humility, open-handed generosity, and a profound capacity for empathy”. He said Idris was always available whenever his family needed “a shoulder to lean on.”
“His doors were always open to us with warmth, a welcoming smile, and reassuring words,” he added.
He said the late elder statesman had “a rare gift”, the ability to make everyone around him feel valued, protected and cared for. According to him, the late governor’s kindness touched the grassroots and left generational impacts on countless homes, including his own.
“Though Alhaji Ibro na Allah has transitioned to glory, his noble deeds, his compassionate spirit, and the immense love he showed us will never be forgotten,” Agbana said.
He noted that a life well spent is measured “not by wealth, but by the lives touched and the hearts left behind.”
Agbana prayed for the repose of the late governor’s soul.
“May Almighty Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings, reward his immense humanitarian deeds, and grant him the highest rank in Jannatul Firdaus,” he said.
He also prayed for the immediate family of the deceased and the people of Kogi State.
“Rest in peace, great leader. Your memory remains a blessing,” he concluded.
