Ex-Kogi Gov Ibrahim Idris Dies in UK

Former Kogi State Governor Ibrahim Idris has died in the United Kingdom at the age of 77, according to reports.

Idris died on Sunday, September 20, 2026, in the UK, with details surrounding his death still limited at the time of reporting.

His death was confirmed to AIT by his nephew, Shehu Ahmed, while multiple Nigerian media reports also reported the development.

Following the announcement, Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo visited the late governor’s Abuja residence to commiserate with members of his family.

Ododo subsequently declared a three-day mourning period in honour of Idris and directed that the national and state flags be flown at half-mast across government offices and designated public institutions.

The governor also announced that Idris would receive a state burial, with the Kogi State Government taking responsibility for the burial arrangements and associated expenses.

In a condolence message, Ododo described Idris as an eminent son of Kogi State who devoted a significant part of his life to public service.

He noted that Idris’s administration contributed to development and institutional growth in the state, including interventions in infrastructure, education, healthcare and other sectors.

Ibrahim Idris was born in 1949 in Idah, Kogi State. Before entering politics, he built a business career through Ibro Trading Company, with interests including construction, furniture manufacturing and hospitality.

He entered elective politics and became Governor of Kogi State in 2003 after defeating the then-incumbent governor, Abubakar Audu.

Idris was re-elected in 2007, but the election was later nullified following a legal challenge. He subsequently contested a March 2008 re-run election and returned to office.

He remained governor until January 2012, when he was succeeded by Captain Idris Wada.

Idris governed Kogi for nearly nine years, making him one of the longest-serving governors in the state’s history.

During his tenure, his administration was associated with several projects and initiatives, including roads, healthcare facilities, educational infrastructure, housing and water schemes.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, described Idris as a significant figure in the political history of Kogi State and the Peoples Democratic Party.

The former governor’s death comes as political stakeholders and residents of Kogi mourn a prominent figure whose career