By Cross Udo and Nathaniel Zacchaeus, Abuja
Elder statesman and prominent Ijaw leader Chief Edwin Clark has passed away at the age of 97, marking the end of an era for one of Nigeria’s most vocal advocates for resource control, equity, and good governance.
Clark, a former Federal Commissioner for Information and an influential voice in the Niger Delta dedicated his life to the fight for justice, regional development, and the protection of minority rights.
His passing leaves a significant void in Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly within the Ijaw nation and the broader Niger Delta region, where he was revered as a father figure and a fearless defender of their interests.
Following his death, barely a few days after the passing of another elder statesman, Pa Ayo Adebanja, President Bola Tinubu expressed deep grief over Clark’s passing.
Tinubu described the respected leader of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) as a courageous leader who stood for his beliefs.
He also said that the late sage was never afraid to stand alone in the face of injustice.
Born on May 25, 1927, in Kiagbodo, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, Clark led an illustrious life marked by dedicated service, at different times, to the nation and his community as a councillor, state and federal cabinet member.
He was also a passionate advocate for resource control, economic and environmental justice in the Niger Delta.
Tinubu, on behalf of the federal government, extended his condolences to the Clark family, the Ijaw nation, the people of the Niger Delta, and the government of Delta State.
In a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the President mourned Clark and described his passing as a deeply sobering loss.
Reflecting on the life of the late statesman, the President said Chief Clark was a towering figure whose influence was felt across Nigeria’s political firmament for nearly six decades.
He stated that Chief Clark was a courageous leader who stood for what he believed in and was never afraid to stand alone in the face of injustice.
“Chief Clark spoke for the Niger Delta; he spoke for the nation; his views and interventions on national issues were distinct and patriotic.
“Pa Clark, a lawyer and educationist, believed in a united Nigeria, and until his last breath, he never stopped reaching out to people from different parts of the country to work together to preserve national unity based on justice and equity.
“As an astute politician, his political opponents never doubted his words’ weight, confidence, and conviction when he spoke. Indeed, a patriot has transitioned to the great beyond.
“History will remember him as a man who fought gallantly for the rights of the people of the Niger Delta, unity in diversity, and true federalism. I know many generations will remain proud of how his efforts contributed to national prosperity and stability,” the President says.
Tinubu prayed for divine comfort for Chief Clark’s family, friends, and all those affected by this significant loss.
Similarly, a former Minister of External Affairs, Prof Bolaji Akinyemi, expressed grief over Clark’s death.
Akinyemi, who was the deputy chairman of the National Conference in 2014, said, “It is with a heavy heart that I heard this morning of the death of the old man, Chief Edwin C Clark.
“For six months in 2014, I interacted closely with him at the National Conference. Chief Clark was a delegate and an eminent statesman while I was the deputy chairman. One of the things that struck me was that Chief Clark was not late for one day or one session during the entire session of the Conference.
“While he did not speak much publicly, behind the scenes, his intervention was much, and it was motivated by the desire to maintain a just and united Nigeria. He used his extensive links with fellow politicians to assuage emotions when those flew. He has earned the rest, and may he rest in peace.”
*Clark’s death is loss of a nation’s conscience, says Akpabio
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has described the death of the late Chief Edwin Clark as the loss of the nation’s conscience.
He stated this in a statement he signed.
Part of the statement read, “With the passing of Pa Edwin Clark, an era draws to a solemn close.
“Today, we do not merely mourn the departure of a man; we grieve the fading of a guiding light, a towering statesman whose voice resonated with wisdom, courage, and unshakable love for Nigeria.
“His was a life of service, a life of conviction, and above all, a life dedicated to justice.”
The President of the Senate described Pa Clark’s demise as a monumental loss to Nigeria, the Niger Delta, and all who cherish unity, fairness, and national progress.
He said, “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Pa Edwin Clark, a renowned statesman, nationalist, and Ijaw leader.
“His dedication to Nigeria’s unity and development will remain evergreen in the hearts of those who knew him. As a nation, we have lost a true patriot and a champion of justice.
“At 97 years old, Pa Clark stood as a bridge between generations—his life a testament to resilience, integrity, and an unwavering belief in the promise of Nigeria.
“From his early days as a councilor to his service as a federal minister, to his revered role as a political father and advisor to President Goodluck Jonathan, he was not just a leader—he was a moral compass, reminding us of the responsibility of governance.
“He was a warrior for the Niger Delta, a fearless advocate for equity and resource control, and an unrelenting defender of the oppressed.
“He spoke truth to power, even when it was inconvenient because he understood that leadership is not about comfort but duty.
“Pa Clark’s remarkable life was marked by strength and an undying commitment to the unity of this country. Though now silenced, his voice will echo in the annals of our history, urging us always toward justice, fairness, and national cohesion.
“Beyond his national impact, I remember with deep gratitude his unwavering support for me, especially when I visited to seek his blessing and endorsement in my bid for the Senate Presidency.
“His counsel was always rooted in wisdom, and his encouragement reflected his deep commitment to responsible leadership.
“In a moment now filled with sorrowful reflection, I recall that just a week before his passing, I sent emissaries to check on him, never imagining that it would be the last time we would reach out to him in this world.
“I did not know that he was preparing for a more significant journey, leaving behind the toils of this earth for the eternal peace of the better world beyond.
“On behalf of my family, the people of Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District, and the entire Senate, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, PANDEF, the people and government of Delta State, and every Nigerian who knew and loved him.
“We take solace in knowing that though he has left this earthly realm, his legacy is indelible. His memory will forever be a beacon of hope and courage for generations yet unborn.”
