The Kogi State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed deep shock over the passing of a former Governor of the state, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, describing his demise as a monumental loss to the state and its workforce.
In a statement issued in Lokoja on Monday, the State NLC Chairman, Comrade Gabriel Amari, paid glowing tribute to the late elder statesman, noting that he remained one of the few political leaders who genuinely prioritized the welfare of workers and impacted lives across the state.
Amari highlighted the late governor’s labor-friendly policies, emphasizing that Kogi workers experienced significant progress under the Idris administration. He specifically recalled the implementation of both the wage relativity and the minimum wage within a six-month period—a feat he described as an unforgettable milestone in the state’s civil service history.
According to the NLC Chairman, the news of the former governor’s death came as a rude shock to the labor movement, as his leadership left an indelible mark on workers, non-workers, the political class, and the citizenry at large.
“We got the news with shock, shock because we felt it was sudden, so sudden because of his person. He died at a time when his wise counsels are mostly needed. As an elder statesman and former Governor, we really need his wise counsels,” Comrade Amari stated.
“Well, we as Labour are consoled because his legacy projects will always speak for him. The Ibro water project, the Housing Estates, the Specialist Hospital, roads, health facilities, and workers’ welfare are all there to speak for him. God knows best, and we pray that God Almighty will rest his soul, Amen,” he added.
Describing the late governor’s capital projects as outstanding and lasting markers of the “Ibro administration,” the labor leader extended his condolences to the government and people of Kogi State, the state workforce, the bereaved family, and the people of Kogi East.
Comrade Amari concluded by calling on political leaders and public officials to view death as an inevitable end for all mortals, urging them to dedicate their time in service to humanity and the creation of enduring legacies.
