Yahaya Bello mourns former Kogi Governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris
Former Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, CON, has expressed profound sadness over the passing of former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, describing his death as the departure of a remarkable personality whose life and relationships touched many people.
Bello said the death of the former Governor marks the end of a remarkable life dedicated, in significant measure, to public service and the advancement of Kogi State.
Born on April 6, 1949, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris rose through life with determination and humility, eventually occupying the highest political office in Kogi State. He served as Governor from 2003 to 2008 and again from 2008 to 2012, dedicating years of his life to the service of the people.
However, Bello noted that beyond the office he occupied and the positions he held, Ibrahim Idris would be remembered by many for the personality behind the title.
“He was a calm and peace-loving individual who valued relationships and preferred understanding to confrontation. His warmth, generosity and accessibility endeared him to colleagues, associates, friends and the many people who encountered him during his lifetime.
“He carried himself with quiet dignity and treated relationships as something worth preserving. In a world where public life can sometimes create divisions, he remained, to many who knew him, a man who valued friendship, peace and goodwill.
“Those who had the privilege of knowing him personally will remember not only the public office he occupied, but also the conversations, kindness, laughter, counsel and moments shared with him.
“That is the part of a person’s life that cannot be fully captured by titles or official records—the memories left in the hearts of those who knew him.”
Bello said Kogi State is mourning a former Governor, while his family, friends and associates are mourning a father, brother, friend, confidant and companion whose absence will be deeply felt.
“Indeed, an icon has gone to rest.
“As we bid farewell to Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, we celebrate a life that carried him from humble beginnings to a position of great responsibility, while leaving behind memories that will continue to live in the hearts of those who knew him.
“May the kindness he showed, the friendships he nurtured and the lives he touched speak for him before his Maker.”
Bello extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, his friends, associates and the people of Kogi State, praying Almighty Allah to forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.
He also prayed Allah to grant his family, friends, associates and all those mourning his passing the strength to bear the painful loss.
“Rest in peace, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris.”
Michael Ohiare
Director, Yahaya Bello Media Office
20/09/2026