The Senate observed a solemn tribute to the former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, popularly known as “Ibro,” who passed away in the United Kingdom on September 20, 2026, at the age of 77.
During the resumption of plenary on Tuesday, lawmakers across party lines paid homage to the late statesman, celebrating his decades of public service, entrepreneurial achievements, and significant contributions to the growth of Kogi State.
The tribute followed a motion moved by Senator Jibrin Isah (Kogi East), who described Idris as an influential political figure and a cornerstone of Kogi’s developmental history. Senator Isah noted that before entering public office, Idris built a flourishing enterprise, the Ibro Group, with successful ventures spanning construction, furniture manufacturing, and hospitality across Nigeria, including the renowned Ibro Hotel and major manufacturing facilities in Sokoto.
As Kogi State’s longest-serving elected civilian governor, holding office from 2003 to 2012, Idris spearheaded major infrastructural advancements. Key initiatives of his administration included the Greater Lokoja Water Scheme expansion, the State Specialist Hospital, civil servant housing estates, school infrastructure programs, and the construction of the Lokoja International Market.
Prominent lawmakers joined in honoring the late governor:
Senator Aminu Tambuwal (Sokoto South) reflected on Idris’s earlier years in Sokoto, praising his business acumen and deep ties to the region.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole (Edo North) recalled working with Idris during his tenure as President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, commending his genuine commitment to workers’ welfare and the implementation of the minimum wage.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) and Senator Abba Moro (Benue South) extended heartfelt condolences, highlighting Idris’s enduring mark on Kogi State’s political landscape.
Concluding the tribute, Senate President Godswill Akpabio led the chamber in observing a minute of silence in honor of the deceased. The Senate resolved to officially communicate its condolences to the family of the late governor and the government and people of Kogi State.
Idris was laid to rest at the Gudu Cemetery in Abuja following his passage in the UK. The burial ceremony was attended by Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, former Kogi governors Yahaya Bello and Idris Wada, along with numerous national political leaders.
His passing has drawn widespread tributes nationwide, including from President Bola Tinubu, who commended Idris as a dedicated public servant whose leadership remains a pivotal chapter in Kogi State’s history.
