Prince Gowon Enenche (G1), the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate for Ankpa, Omala and Olamaboro Federal Constituency, has mourned the death of former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, popularly known as “Ibro.”
In a condolence message, Enenche described the death as a painful loss to Kogi State, particularly the people of Omala, the late governor’s home, and those who valued his experience and contributions to public service.
“Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un. The news of the passing of the former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, is deeply saddening and distressing,” he said.
Enenche extended his condolences to the deceased’s immediate family, children and loved ones, as well as the people of Omala and the entire state.
“My heartfelt condolences go first to his immediate family, his children and loved ones. I also extend my sympathy to the good people of Omala and the entire Kogi State,” he said.
He said the late governor’s experience and counsel would be missed, particularly at a time when the state needs wisdom, maturity and constructive dialogue.
“His departure therefore comes at a time when many of us would have wished to still have the opportunity to seek his counsel, listen to his perspectives and benefit from the experience accumulated over decades of public engagement,” Enenche said.
According to him, Idris belonged to a generation of leaders whose experience was shaped by different phases of Kogi’s political development.
“Alhaji Ibrahim Idris belonged to that generation of leaders whose experience was shaped by many seasons of our political journey. His understanding of Kogi’s political landscape, its people and the complexities of public service would have remained valuable, particularly at a time when our state needs wisdom, maturity, restraint and sincere dialogue,” he said.
Idris governed Kogi State from 2003 to 2012 on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He defeated the then incumbent governor, Prince Abubakar Audu, in the 2003 governorship election. His 2007 election was later nullified by the courts, after which he won the 2008 re-run election. He left office in January 2012 and was succeeded by Captain Idris Wada.
Enenche said Idris’s death should provide an opportunity for reflection beyond political differences.
“Beyond politics and political differences, the death of an elder and former leader calls for reflection. Alhaji Ibrahim Idris has left behind a significant chapter in the political history of Kogi State, and his contributions will remain part of our collective story,” he said.
He prayed for the repose of the former governor’s soul and for strength for his family, the people of Omala and the entire Kogi State.
“May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds, grant him Al-Jannatul Firdaus and give his family, the people of Omala and the entire Kogi State the strength to bear this painful loss,” Enenche said.
