Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has expressed deep sorrow over the death of a former governor of the state, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, describing his passing as a profound loss to both the state and the nation.
In honor of the late elder statesman, Governor Ododo has declared a three-day period of state mourning, directing that national and state flags be flown at half-mast across all government offices and designated public institutions throughout Kogi State.
The announcement was contained in an official statement issued on Sunday in Lokoja by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo.
Governor Ododo declared that the late former governor would receive a full State Burial, with the Kogi State Government taking full responsibility for all burial expenses and logistical arrangements to accord him the honor befitting his stature.
Earlier, the governor paid a condolence visit to the residence of the deceased, where he personally commiserated with members of the Idris family. In a formal condolence letter presented to the family, Governor Ododo noted that the death of the former governor had robbed Kogi State of an eminent son who devoted a significant portion of his life to public service.
Alhaji Ibrahim Idris served as the Governor of Kogi State from 2003 to 2011. Commending his legacy, Governor Ododo emphasized that the eight-year administration of the late former governor recorded critical interventions in key sectors, including infrastructure, education, and healthcare, leaving a lasting impact on the state’s developmental history.
Ododo described the late leader as a public servant who committed himself wholeheartedly to the responsibilities entrusted to him, adding that his years in office constituted a crucial chapter in the political and institutional growth of Kogi State.
Extending his sympathies on behalf of the government and people of the state, Governor Ododo urged the bereaved family, friends, and associates to draw strength from the enduring memories of his service to humanity. He prayed that Almighty Allah would forgive the shortcomings of the deceased, grant him Aljannatul Firdaus, and grant the family and citizens of Kogi State the fortitude to bear the loss.
