*** Deputy Governor Joel Salifu Chairs Committee as State Begins Preparations for Former Gov s burial .

By Sam Biodun Ogundipe in London

In a solemn demonstration of leadership, compassion and respect for the history of Kogi State, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has moved swiftly to ensure that the late former Governor of the State, His Excellency Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, receives a dignified and befitting final farewell.

Following the Governor’s condolence visit to the bereaved family in Abuja on Sunday, where he expressed the government and people of Kogi State’s grief over the passing of the former Governor, the State Government has constituted a high-powered committee to coordinate arrangements for his burial.

The move he said is a reflection of his determination to ensure that the man who once served as Chief Executive of Kogi State is honoured not only in death, but in a manner that reflects the place he occupies in the political and developmental history of the State.

The committee, chaired by the Deputy Governor, His Excellency Comrade Joel Salifu, held its maiden meeting in Lokoja, bringing together senior government officials, political leaders and other stakeholders to begin the painstaking task of organising a peaceful, dignified and befitting burial in accordance with Islamic rites.

At the meeting, the Deputy Governor conveyed the commitment of the State Government to working hand-in-hand with the deceased’s family throughout the burial process.

He stressed that the administration of Governor Ododo would ensure that the late former Governor receives a farewell worthy of his service to Kogi State, while also respecting the wishes and traditions of his family.

The committee approved several sub committees to handle the various aspects of the burial arrangements, including Prayer, Mobilisation, Entertainment, Media, Venue and Protocol, Tomb Preparation, Finance and Security.

The Deputy Governor directed the subcommittees to immediately commence preparations and remain on alert pending the conclusion of consultations with the family.

The committee will also work closely with the family on arrangements for the return of the former Governor’s remains from the United Kingdom and the subsequent state burial.

The high-powered committee is enlisted below:

1. H.E. Elder Comrade Joel Salifu — Chairman

2. Alhaji Musa Amodu — Member

3. Hon. Ali Bello — Member

4. Hon. Abdullahi Bello — Member

5. Rt. Hon. Abdullahi Halims — Member

6. Comrade Jerry Omodara (Rtd.) — Member

7. Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo — Member

8. Alhaji Yakubu Okala — Member

9. Hajiya Rabietu Okute — Member

10. Alhaji Suleiman Ibrahim — Member

11. Hon. Atuluku Levi — Member

12. Hon. Peter Ameh Mark — Member

13. Hon. Tosin Lagba Olokun — Member

14. Honourable Emma Egwu — Member

15. Barrister Kabiru — Member

16. Elder Friday Sani Makama — Member

17. Alhaji Tenimu Idris — Member

18. Alhaji Yahaya Karaku — Member

19. Alhaji Mamudu Alfa — Member

20. Honourable Bashir Audu — Member

21. Mrs. Ayoade Folashade Arike, PhD — Secretary