GOVERNOR Yahaya Bello of Kogi, has described the late Idris Isiaka as an epitome of humility, who contributed immensely to the development of the state.

Bello said this in a statement issued on Sunday in Lokoja, by his Director-General Media, and Publicity, Mr Kingsley Fanwo.

The statement said the governor spoke at the burial of Isiaka in Lokoja on Sunday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Isiaka, age 71, a philanthropist, and a community leader, who was also into construction died on Saturday in Lokoja.

The deceased until his death, was also the Head, Kogi Central Elders Advisory Council, a body that advises the governor on policy and political issues in the state.

The governor also described Isiaka’s death as a painful loss to the government and people of the state.

“Indeed, it was a black Saturday for the people of the state as the departed was a committed statesman who contributed immensely to the development and unity of our dear state.

“The death of Isiaka is a personal loss to me in particular, and a colossal loss to Kogi State as a whole.

“As a community leader among the Ebira people, he has played an immense role in ensuring peace and stability among the Ebira nation and its people.

“He was respected and adored by the people for his sterling qualities as a man of fairness and equity.’’

Bello said that the Kogi Central Elders Advisory Council, which Isiaka headed before his death would miss his wise counsel.

The governor also commiserated with the people of the state and the family of Isiaka, and pray God to grant him eternal rest.

“It is my prayer that God grants us all the fortitude to bear the loss of our father and brother.’’

He urged the youth to “imbibe those qualities that distinguished the deceased during his lifetime”.

Sen. Smart Adeyemi, who chairs the Kogi West Elders Advisory Council, also expressed shock at the demise of Isiaka, describing him as a peace loving man.

Adeyemi said his death was a great loss to the Kogi State Elders Advisory Council and the state as whole. (NAN)

– May 28, 2018 @ 9:55 GMT |