President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the death of former Kogi State Governor Ibrahim Idris as a significant loss to Nigeria.
Idris, who governed Kogi State between 2003 and 2011, died on Sunday at the age of 77.
President Tinubu, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, expressed deep sorrow over the former governor’s death and extended his condolences to his family, the government and people of Kogi State, as well as his friends, associates and political colleagues.
The President described the deceased as a committed public servant who devoted a substantial part of his life to the service and development of Kogi State.
He recalled that Idris’ administration recorded interventions in infrastructure, education, healthcare and other critical sectors during his two terms in office.
Tinubu also acknowledged the former governor’s contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development and his many years of involvement in public affairs.
The statement reads in part: ‘Alhaji Ibrahim Idris was a committed public servant whose years in office formed an important chapter in the political and developmental history of Kogi State.
‘His passing is a painful loss to his family, Kogi State and Nigeria. At this difficult moment, we must remember and honour his contributions to the growth of his state and our nation.
‘I extend my deepest condolences to his family and the people of Kogi State. May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Aljannah Firdaus.’
President Tinubu prayed for Almighty Allah to grant the Idris family the strength and fortitude to bear the loss.
Also yesterday, a one- time Deputy Governor of the state, Yomi Awoniyi and an All Progressives Congress APC) chieftain in the state, Muri Ajaka, said the former governor’s role in the socio -political development of the state would never be forgotten.
Describing Idris as a statesman and a major political figure in the state, Awoniyi said his passing marks the end of a significant chapter in the political history of our dear state. ýIn the condolence message, Ajaka said Idris would be remembered for his years of public service and role as an elder statesman.
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ý’This is a painful loss, not only to his immediate family but to the people of Kogi State and everyone whose life he touched during his years of public service, the APC stalwart said.