“President Muhammadu Buhari has received with sadness, news of the passing away of the first civilian governor of Delta State, Chief Felix Ibru”, the presidency said in a statement on  Sunday.

“On behalf of the Federal Government, President Buhari extends sincere condolences to the renowned Ibru family, the Urhobos whom he led for many years as President-General of the Urhobo Progressive Union, the people of Delta State and Chief Ibru’s friends and associates across Nigeria,” said the statement by spokesman Femi Adesina.

“The President joins them in mourning the late governor and distinguished senator who made remarkable contributions to the progress and development of Nigeria during his long career as an illustrious architect, businessman, politician, community leader and philanthropist.

“President Buhari urges all who mourn Chief Ibru to take solace in the awareness of his very fulfilled life of great accomplishments and give thanks to God Almighty for the indelible legacies which the late governor has left behind for his heirs and successors to build on.

“He prays that God Almighty will receive Chief Ibru’s soul and grant him eternal rest”.