Iruoma Okpalaebubu
Nigerians on Tuesday, were thrown into shock over the announcement of the death of Chief Edwin Clark, a great patriot of the country.
National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Dr Godknows Igali, had announced the death of the National Elder Statesman, who died late hours of Monday, February 17, 2025.
In a statement signed by PANDEF spokesperson, Obiuwevbi Ominimini, Igalil, said Pa Clark died in Abuja, late Monday evening, surrounded by family and loved ones at the age of 97 years.
“A national patriach, a renowned lawyer, activist, and politician, Chief Clark was also the leader of the people of the South-South region of Nigeria and the Ijaw ethnic nationality, in particular. He founded PANDEF, South and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBL), amongst many others.
“Pa Clark was indeed a towering figure in our Nigeria for over 75 years of active public service known for his tireless advocacy for justice, equality, and human rights.
His contributions to the legal profession, politics, community development, and the educational sector where he founded several universities are immeasurable.
As he quietly departs after a very active life that just eluded his 98 birthday, his standing as a passionate champion of the people, a brilliant mind, and a generous spirit will continue to inspire all Nigerians to work the more towards a more just, equitable, and compassionate society.
We are comforted by God’s word in Acts Chapter 13:36: After he had served the purpose of God in his own generation, he fell asleep and was allowed to rest”
Igali assured that a detailed programme for his obsequies will be announced in due course.
Meanwhile, Nigerians have expressed shock over the sudden demise of the Niger Delta activist.
Pa Edwin Clark: We Lost a True Patriot, NDDC
The Board, Management, and staff of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), join all Nigerians in mourning the exit of the foremost nationalist and Niger Delta leader, Chief Edwin Clark.
In a statement by Chiedu Ebie, NDDC Chairman, said the late PANDEF leader was a rare gem for the people of the Niger Delta region, stressing that his unrelenting advocacy for the region and Nigeria’s unity and development will remain evergreen in our memories.
“For us in the NDDC, Pa Clark was an outstanding leader not just for the South-South geopolitical zone and the Niger Delta but for Nigeria and the black race.
“We are consoled that the foremost Ijaw leader left an indelible footprint on the sands of time. His impactful life is etched in bold relief in various sectors of Nigerian national life, as are the enviable accomplishments he achieved in many years of distinguished national service.
“As a man who lived through the struggles and triumphs of the colonial, Independence, and post-independence eras with all the twists and turns, Chief Clark was simply an unforgettable icon.”
Chiedu continued that”Pa Clark served Nigeria in several capacities. He was a member of an advisory committee to the military governor of the Mid-Western Region, David Ejoor.
“As a cabinet member during the administration of Military Governor Samuel Ogbemudia and his days as Federal Commissioner of Information in 1975, Pa Clark demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the Nigerian cause.
“As commissioner for education, Chief Clark was instrumental in establishing the Mid-West College of Technology, which later became the University of Benin. The ex-Senator and founder of Edwin Clark University was very passionate about education
“He was a courageous fighter until his last breath, galvanising the Southern and Middle Belt peoples to restructure the Nigerian polity and preach peace”.
He said the passing of Pa Clark closes a glorious chapter in the country’s annals. “We at the NDDC do not merely mourn the departure of a great man; we grieve the loss of a guiding light whose voice is revered with wisdom and courage.
Nigeria has lost a true patriot and a strong voice for justice.”
Governor Fubara Describes Pa Clark as Beacon of Hope for Nigerians
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has extended condolences to the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town in Delta State over the passing of their father, Chief Edwin Clark at 97 years.
Governor Fubara said the tragic news of the death of Chief Edwin Clark, made public on behalf of the family by Prof C. C. Clark, is rather heart-wrenching, given the impact of such a loss.
“I am deeply saddened to hear about the loss of our beloved father and leader, Chief Edwin Clark. Despite his age, he remained active, serving as beacon of hope and conscience to leaders in government.
“He kept in touch with national issues and did not cease from providing elderly counsel to leaders at various levels, in pursuit of responsible and responsive leadership in Nigeria.”
Governor Fubara noted that Chief Edwin Clark, as a courageous Ijaw leader, nationalist, and freedom fighter, demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to the unity of Nigeria, and boldly defended the rights of the minorities, especially Niger Deltans.
“He has left indelible footprints as a nationalist for the inspiring roles he played in the Middle-Belt Leaders Forum (MBLF), and as leader of Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF). I pray the Almighty God to grant the repose of his soul and reward his courageous services to the Niger Delta region and Nigeria.”
Governor Fubara also consoled the family, saying: “As you navigate this dark period, remember that you are not alone. May the Almighty God grant you the strength and fortitude to bear this painful loss.”
Peterside: In Edwin Clark’s Death, Nigeria Lost A Voice
Former Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dakuku Peterside said with the demise of Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, Nigeria has lost a “voice, patriot, statesman, defender and shining light.”
Dr Peterside, who received the news with shock, stated that the demise of the Federal Commissioner of Information has created a vacuum that will be too huge to fill.
“The late Clark is a true Nigerian hero who spoke truth to power and made a lot of sacrifices defending the rights and privileges of the minorities,” he stressed.
While stressing that the deceased represented courage and patriotism, the turnaround expert said he was a champion of the Niger Delta struggle and never wavered in ensuring that the people got a fair deal from government at all levels.
According to him, “My last encounter with him was to discuss his book. I made a speech on behalf of younger Ijaw leaders in Lagos, and he called to appreciate me for the kind words I said about him . He challenged my generation to carry on with the struggle.
“He was a role model, a mentor, one who led the way for others to follow. At his blessed age, he could simply have retired home, but he chose to fight for the cause of common Nigerians regardless of their backgrounds.
“Pa Clark was never afraid to stand for what he believed in; once he is convinced of the proprietary of the cause, he puts his all, even against his safety.
“A sizeable chunk of projects, appointments, policies and programmes we have in the Niger Delta were through his struggles alongside other patriotic sons and daughters of the region,” he stressed.
Dr Peterside sympathised with the government and people of Delta State, the Ijaw ethnic nationality worldwide, elders, and leaders in the Niger Delta over the passage of a “great and irrepressible son.”