By joshua 
Kogi Has Lost A Father, Nigeria Has Lost A Rare Statesman – Industrialist, Kutepa Mourns Ex-Governor Ibrahim Idris
Renowned industrialist, philanthropist and Chairman Waltersmith Petroman Oil Limited, Alhaji Abdulrazaq Isa Kutepa, OFR, has expressed deep shock and sorrow over the death of former Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, CON, Jakadan Sokoto and Fagaci of Lokoja.
Alhaji Kutepa, who is also the Chairman of the World Energy Council – Nigeria (WEC Nigeria), described the passing of the former Governor in London as a monumental and irreplaceable loss to Kogi State and Nigeria.
In a condolence statement issued on Monday, the Kogi-born oil magnate said Kogi State has lost a father, a bridge-builder and a compassionate leader whose tenure from 2003 to 2012 remains the golden era of unity, peace and inclusive development in the state.
“His Excellency, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris was a rare statesman, a man of exceptional humility, uncommon generosity and deep fear of God. He governed Kogi State with a large heart and left behind legacies of people-centered leadership that still stand today. He was a leader who believed in building people and empowering the less privileged, a virtue that endeared him to all,” Alhaji Kutepa stated.
He noted that the late former Governor was not only a political colossus but also a father figure who nurtured many leaders and touched countless lives through his philanthropic and people-oriented policies.
Alhaji Kutepa, on behalf of his family, the Board and Management of Waltersmith Group, and the entire Kutepa family, extended his heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the late former Governor, his children, the Ibro family, the Attah Igala and the Kogi State Traditional Council, the Government and people of Kogi State and the family nationwide.
He prayed that Almighty Allah (SWT) forgives his shortcomings, grants him Aljanatul Firdaus and grants his family, the people of Kogi State and all who mourn him the fortitude to bear this painful and irredeemable loss.
“May Allah reward his good deeds abundantly and grant his soul eternal rest. Kogi will never forget him,” he added.