The Special Adviser on Strategic Investment and Liaison with Federal Agencies to the Kogi State Governor, Ambassador Hassiat Ozavize Suleiman, has expressed deep sadness over the passing of former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, describing him as a benefactor, political leader, elder statesman and a man whose kindness left a lasting impression on her life.
Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, popularly known as Ibro, passed away in London on Sunday at the age of 77 after serving as Governor of Kogi State from 2003 to 2012. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has declared three days of mourning in his honour and announced that he would receive a state burial.
In a condolence message, Ambassador Suleiman recalled her longstanding relationship with the late former Governor, which dates back to her student days when he served as Patron of the Association of Kogi State Students, Bida Chapter, during her tenure as Vice President of the association in 1993–1994.
She described him as a leader who demonstrated genuine interest in the progress and welfare of young people, noting that his encouragement and support remained significant to her throughout the formative stages of her life.
“I mourn Alhaji Ibrahim Idris not simply as a former Governor of my state, but as a benefactor, mentor, political leader and elder statesman whose kindness and encouragement touched my life personally.
“I encountered his generosity at different stages of my journey, beginning from my days as a student leader. Years later, he continued to encourage and support my development, including opening the door to public service for me in Kogi State. These are things I will never forget.”
Ambassador Suleiman said the late former Governor’s impact should be measured not only by the offices he occupied and the projects associated with his administration, but also by the opportunities he created and the lives he touched.
“Leadership is ultimately about the people whose lives you influence. I am one of the many people who can look back and say that Alhaji Ibrahim Idris played a meaningful role in my journey. For that, I remain eternally grateful,” she said.
She also acknowledged the late Governor’s place in the political and developmental history of Kogi State, noting that his years in office represented an important chapter in the evolution of the state. The current Kogi State Government has similarly recognised interventions recorded during his administration in infrastructure, education, healthcare and other critical sectors.
Ambassador Suleiman commiserated with the Idris family, the people of Kogi State, his political associates and all those who mourn his passing.
“Today, Kogi has lost an elder statesman and a repository of political experience, while many individuals who benefited from his kindness have lost a father figure and benefactor. My heart goes out to his family at this very difficult time,” she said.
She prayed that Almighty Allah would forgive the late former Governor’s shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus.
“May Allah grant Baba Ibro eternal rest and give his family, friends, associates and the entire people of Kogi State the fortitude to bear this great loss. May we also have the wisdom to preserve the positive legacy of his life and service to humanity,” Ambassador Suleiman prayed.
