BREAKING: Former Kogi Governor Ibrahim Idris Dies at 77 in UK

Kogi State has been thrown into mourning following the death of former Governor Ibrahim Idris, popularly known as “Ibro,” who reportedly died in the United Kingdom at the age of 77. Idris died on Sunday, September 20, 2026, according to reports from multiple Nigerian news outlets. The death was confirmed to AIT by his nephew, Shehu Ahmed, putting to rest earlier reports that had described the development as unconfirmed. Details surrounding the circumstances of his death had not been publicly disclosed as of the latest reports. News of the former governor’s passing quickly sparked reactions across Kogi State, with prominent political figures moving to sympathise with members of his family. Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, former Governor Yahaya Bello and other government officials were reported to have visited Idris’ Abuja residence following his death. Ibrahim Idris was one of the prominent political figures in Kogi State during Nigeria’s Fourth Republic. He served as governor of Kogi State from 2003 to 2012, initially taking office in 2003 and returning after a court-ordered re-run election in 2008. He completed his tenure in January 2012 and was succeeded by Captain Idris Wada. His nearly nine years in office made him one of the longest-serving civilian governors in Kogi State. Before entering politics, Idris was a businessman. He founded Ibro Trading Company, with interests in construction, furniture manufacturing and hospitality, and also established businesses including a furniture factory and Ibro Hotel. Idris’ time in office covered a significant period in Kogi’s political history, and his name remained prominent in the state’s political circles even after leaving the Government House. His death has therefore triggered condolences from political leaders and residents who remember his years in public service. Kogi Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has mourned the former governor, describing his death as the loss of a significant figure who contributed to the development of the state. The Kogi State Government has also announced three days of mourning, with the national flag to be flown at half-mast. Reports say the state government will take responsibility for his burial and accord him a state burial. Idris had also experienced major personal tragedies during his lifetime. In 2006, three of his daughters survived the ADC Airlines Flight 53 crash, one of Nigeria’s major aviation disasters. In April 2024, he suffered another devastating loss when his son, Mohammed Ibrahim Idris, a former member of the House of Representatives, died in Abuja shortly after Eid-el-Fitr prayers. The former governor’s death at 77 now marks the end of the life of one of the most recognisable political figures in Kogi State’s recent history. Ibrahim Idris is survived by his family. Further details concerning his burial arrangements are expected to emerge.