By Sam Biodun Ogundipe in London

The father of Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo, is dead.

His death was confirmed in a statement issued on Monday by the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Fanwo.

Fanwo described the 83-year-old Momohsani as a devout Muslim who would be buried in line with Islamic traditions.

The statement reads: “The Kogi State Government regrets to announce the passing of the father of the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Late Alhaji Ahmed Momohsani Ododo, who returned to his Creator a few hours ago at the age of 83.

His Janazah (funeral) will be conducted and he will be laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites. We pray to Allah (SWT) to forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds, and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus.

“We also pray that Almighty Allah grants the Governor, his family, and the entire Ododo family the strength to bear this great loss with fortitude

Although details of the circumstances surrounding his death were not disclosed, government officials and political leaders in Kogi are expected to pay tributes to the governor’s late father, who was widely respected in his community

The late Alhaji Ahmed Momohsani is survived by children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, including Governor Usman Ododo, who assumed office in January 2024 .