A Life of Achievement
London, January 18, 2025 — The Nigerian community and the global pageantry world are mourning the loss of Edna Ibru (née Park). A former Miss Nigeria and ex-First Lady of Delta State, she passed away on Wednesday in London after a brief illness. She was in her 80s.
Mrs. Ibru was crowned Miss Nigeria in 1964 at the age of 19. She became the first Nigerian and African to represent the country at the Miss Universe competition. She later married Olorogun Felix Ibru, the first civilian Governor of Delta State, who served from 1991 to 1992.
Family Tribute
The Ibru family of Agbarha-Otor Kingdom in Delta State confirmed her passing in a statement issued by her son, Dr. Paul Ibru, on Saturday.
“Our amazing mother passed into glory on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, after a brief illness. Until her death, she was full of life. We never expected her to leave us so soon, but we cannot question the will of God in her precious life. She was a lover of people, a mediator, a mother to many, outrageously humorous, deeply caring, and down-to-earth. We will miss her very dearly,” the statement read.
Professional Accomplishments
An accomplished businesswoman, Mrs. Ibru trained as a fashion designer and hairdresser. She owned a hair salon in England called Sherina Hair Care, which she managed for eight years before transitioning into fashion design.
In a 2017 interview with ThisDay, she reflected on life after death. She said, “I am not quite sure, but I know I am going somewhere, and I know I will come back (on the day of resurrection). But when I die, what I want is good music.”
Tributes from Delta State
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State expressed sadness over Mrs. Ibru’s death. He described it as painful and offered his condolences to the Ibru family of Agbarha-Otor in Ughelli North Local Government Area of the state.
“On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I mourn the passing of a great woman of substance, a caring mother, and loving wife, Mrs. Edna Ibru,” the Governor said in a statement. “The news of her death came as a shock, especially now that the family needed her motherly and wise counsel.”
He prayed to God to accept her soul and grant fortitude to her loved ones to bear the loss.
Funeral Arrangements
Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced, as the family requests privacy during this difficult time. Memorial services are being planned in London and Nigeria to honor her extraordinary life.
Mrs. Ibru is survived by her children, Dr. Paul Ibru and Sheri Felix Ibru. Her legacy as a trailblazer and role model will undoubtedly endure. May her soul rest in peace.
