By Abiola Olawale
Prominent Nigerian leaders, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former President Goodluck Jonathan, the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, and Douye Diri, governor of Bayelsa state gathered in Kiagbodo, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, to honour late elder statesman and Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, at his final burial rites.
The funeral, a solemn yet celebratory event, marked the end of an era for a man widely regarded as a titan, national conscience, and a fierce fighter for the rights of the Niger Delta.
Clark, who passed away on February 17, 2025, at his Asokoro residence in Abuja at the age of 97, was celebrated for his lifelong dedication to Nigeria’s unity, justice, and the development of the Niger Delta.
His contributions as a former Federal Commissioner(Minister) for Information, Second Republic Senator, a vocal critic of injustice, a mentor to generations of leaders, amongst others were unerlined in heartfelt eulogies by attendees.
President Tinubu, in a tribute delivered on his behalf by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, described Clark as a “beacon of truth and a relentless fighter for equity.”
He maintained that Chief Clark’s advocacy for resource control and regional development helped shaped modern Nigeria.
“Pa Clark was a passionate advocate for resource control and economic and social justice. He was a beacon of courage who spoke for the Niger Delta and the nation. His views on national issues were distinct and patriotic. He believed in a united Nigeria. As an astute politician, even his opponents never doubted his integrity,” Akume stated.
He further added: “History will always remember him as a patriot who fought valiantly for Nigeria’s unity. His service and dedication will continue to inspire us all.”
Jonathan, who shares deep ties with Clark as a fellow Ijaw, and political son, spoke emotionally about Clark’s mentorship.
“He was a father to many of us, a man who spoke truth to power without fear. His love for Nigeria was unmatched,” Jonathan remarked, urging young leaders to emulate Clark’s commitment to fairness.
“He was a staunch advocate for freedom and national pride. Pa Clark was more than a father and leader; he was an ambassador, an audacious voice for the voiceless, and a steadfast preacher of justice and minority rights,” Jonathan added.
Akpabio extolled Pa Clark’s legacy, describing him as a defender of the oppressed.
“Pa Clark was a pan-Nigerian and Pan-African who fought for all, including the minorities. He has left a legacy and a responsibility to his followers. He did well for Nigeria and the Niger Delta. The Senate valued him, and his memory will remain a part of our national history,” Akpabio stated.
He highlighted Clark’s commitment to justice, noting that he stood tall when others compromised for convenience.
“He didn’t just hold office, he held values. He challenged injustice and reminded us that true patriotism is active, not passive. Silence in the face of injustice, he believed, was betrayal,” he added.
Douye Diri on his part lauded Clark’s nationalism and leadership, stressing that the late nationalist and Ijaw leader will be greatly missed.
Oborevwori described Pa Clark as fearless, vocal, and assertive in speaking truth to power.
“Pa Clark lived a fulfilling life and will be remembered for his legacy and contributions to nation-building. He was a teacher, educator, politician, and astute public servant—an example of a life dedicated to service,” Oborevwori said.
He called for unity in the Niger Delta to continue Clark’s legacy, stressing the importance of solidarity for progress.
