Tragedy as former first lady dies

Edna Ibru, Nigeria’s first-ever representative at the Miss Universe competition and former First Lady of Delta State, has passed away. She died on January 15, 2025, in London following a brief illness.

The late Edna Ibru, crowned Miss Nigeria in 1964, was married to Olorogun Felix Ibru, the first executive governor of Delta State and a distinguished businessman and politician. Her historic participation in the Miss Universe contest made her a trailblazer in African pageantry.

In a statement issued on Saturday in Warri, Delta State, her son, Dr. Paul Ibru, confirmed her death. Describing her as a vibrant, compassionate, and humorous woman, he highlighted her legacy as a mother figure to many and a beacon of joy and warmth.

“She was full of life until her passing and left an indelible mark on all who knew her,” Dr. Ibru noted, adding that funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.