5 days ago
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The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), the Northern State Governors’ Forum (NSGF), the Conference of United Political Parties (CUPP), Governors Peter Mbah of Enugu State and Bassey Otu of Cross River, Afenifere, Ijaw National Congress (INC), Dr. Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known Tompolo, Tanko Yakasai and others have condoled with the families of two prominent Nigerians and elder statesmen, Pa Ayo Adebanjo and Chief Edwin Clark.
The NGF, in a statement signed in Ilorin by the Chief Press Secretary to Kwara Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye, said their deaths had depleted the rank of national outstanding voices.
According to the statement, the two were never afraid to offer their views on issues of national importance.
The forum recalled that the duo played critical roles in the evolution of the country’s democracy, constitutional development, and the discourse around its federal system vis-a-vis topical issues of resource control and the rights of ethnic minorities.
It extended its heartfelt condolences to the people and governments of South-West and South-South, especially Ogun and Delta States, and the families of the statesmen on these developments.
The forum prayed for the repose of their souls, saying their legacies would endure for generations yet unborn.
The Northern State Governors’ Forum also expressed sorrow over the demise of Clark.
Chairman of the forum, made up of 19 state governors, and Governor of Gombe State, Inuwa Yahaya, described him as an upright and relentless advocate of fairness.
He said Clark’s contributions to governance, democracy, and national discourse earned him admiration and respect.
The governor extended his heartfelt condolences to the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family, the government and people of Delta, the South-South region, and Nigeria as a whole.
•Kalu: Served meritoriously
Former governor of Abia State and Senator representing Abia North, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, has commiserated with the family of Pa Clark, noting that he served Nigeria and Niger Delta meritoriously in different positions.
He added that he would be remembered for his contributions to the socio-political and economic development of Niger Delta and Nigeria at large
In a condolence message, Kalu urged the Clark family to uphold the good deeds of their late patriarch.
He said: “On behalf of the people of Abia North Senatorial district, I condole with the Clark family on the loss of their patriarch, Pa Edwin Clark.
“The deceased was a notable figure in Nigeria, having served meritoriously in various positions
“He was a patriotic and selfless statesman with passion for a progressive Nigeria.
“He left behind a good legacy.”
The former governor also condoled with Delta state government and prayed that God would grant the deceased a peaceful rest and give the Clark family the fortitude to bear the loss.
•Buhari: Iconic statesman
Former president, Muhammadu Buhari, described his death as a significant loss for the nation.
He hailed Clark as an “iconic statesman,” emphasising his dedication to reform and unwavering commitment to the development of his community and the nation as a whole.
In a statement by his media aide, Garba Shehu, the former president noted that Clark’s contributions have left an indelible mark on Nigeria, and his commitment to unity will be remembered by future generations.
Buhari encouraged the Clark family and the people of the Delta region to uphold and honor Clark’s numerous achievements.
•Mbah: Unpretentious federalist
Governor Mbah describing him as an unpretentious federalist.
The governor said that Clark gave his all in service to God, country, and humanity at large.
Mbah, in a post on his verified X handle, @PNMbah, said Clark discharged his calling as a social crusader, and a champion of equity, justice, and true federalist.
“I received with rude shock the passing on of a revered statesman, Chief Edwin Clark. He was one man, whom you were never in doubt of where he stood on any national issue.
“He was a courageous leader and was not just bold and vocal, but also he was principled in his advocacy,” he said.
According to him, the Ijaw leader fought for democracy, good governance, and fiscal federalism until he breathed his last.
“This is, therefore, a grave loss, not only to his immediate family, Delta State, and the Niger Delta, but also to the nation as a whole,” he said.
The governor prayed for the peaceful repose of the soul of the late icon.
•Otu: His contributions immeasurable
Governor Otu said the passing of the revered elder statesman has left Nigeria in mourning.
Expressing deep sorrow over the loss, the governor said the news of Clarke’s death came as a shock a day after he met with a delegation from the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF).
The governor said that during that meeting, he had extended his well wishes to Clarke, who, due to health reasons, was unable to join the delegation’s visit to Cross River.
“While Clarke’s passing at the age of 97 signifies a life well-lived, it remains a painful loss, given his vast experience, wisdom, and dedication to public service.
“The South-South region and the entire nation have lost a patriotic leader whose contributions to national development were immeasurable.”
• Model of integrity, consistency, fidelity –Oborevwori
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State said Pa Clark’s life and times were well spent in the service of the nation.
He eulogised the late elder statesman for his unwavering and unprecedented dedication to the growth and unity of the nation, especially in the South-South.
“To the people of the Niger Delta region, he was their champion. Bold, outspoken, and fearless, he stood resolute in crusading for fairness, equity and justice for the region.
“His exit is also a personal loss; he was a motivator, mentor, and father to me. I will miss his wisdom, counsel, and zest for life.
“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta state, I commiserate with the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, in Burutu LGA of Delta State, on the passing of Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, on Monday, Feb. 17, 2025.
“My thoughts and prayers are with his family, the people of Kiagbodo, and the Ijaw nation over this monumental loss. We can all take solace in the saying that Chief Clark came, he saw, and he conquered.
“Pa Clark, an astute lawyer, administrator, patriot, and freedom fighter, was a prominent player in Nigerian politics and a tenacious supporter of the rights of Niger Delta people,” Oborevwori said.
The governor said that Clark’s passing, coming a few days after the death of Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, was truly the end of a great era. May his gentle soul rest in peace.(
•His exit concludes monumental chapter in Nigerian history – Abiodun
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State described the death of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) leader as a glorious conclusion of a monumental chapter in Nigerian history.
The governor, in a statement issued in Abeokuta, said Clark’s death was a profound loss to Nigeria.
Abiodun, chairman of the Southern Governors Forum (SGF), said Clark was one of the greatest leaders ever produced by the South-South geopolitical zone.
He noted that the exit of the foremost nationalist, educationist, legal practitioner, freedom fighter and restructuring advocate, marked an unforgettable era.
Abiodun says whatever sorrow the exit of the foremost Ijaw leader springs from has been tempered by the giant strides he left in various sectors of the Nigerian national life.
•Okpebholo: His legacy’ll live on through countless lives he touched
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, yesterday, expressed deep sorrow and condolences on the passing of Chief Clark.
He said: “Today, Edo State mourns the loss of a true giant. Edwin Clark dedicated his life to the service of our region and our nation. His contributions as an advocate for education and a champion of social justice have left an indelible mark on our history. He was a man of integrity, vision, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of our society.
“He was a mentor to many, and his guidance and counsel will be deeply missed. He inspired generations of public servants, young leaders, and community members to strive for excellence and to serve with dedication.
“Edwin Clark’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the positive impact he had on everyone. We have lost a true treasure, but we are grateful for the time we had with him and the invaluable contributions he made,” Governor Okpebholo further stated.
•Ijaw congress: We lost fearless, impactful leader
The Ijaw National Congress (INC) worldwide, described late Chief Clark as a “fearless and impactful leader.
The INC in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Chief Ezonebi Oyakemeagbegha, in Abuja, said the demise of the elder statesman was shocking.
Oyakemeagbegha said Clark was a visionary leader with an unwavering commitment to speaking truth to power.
He also said the elder statesman, an advocate for the rights of the people of the Niger Delta region, the South-South, and other marginalised communities, would be deeply missed.
“It is with deep shock and sadness that the INC worldwide received the news of the passing of our leader and elder, Chief E.K Clark.
“As a fearless and impactful leader, Pa Clark was unapologetic in his pursuit of equality and justice.
“As the Chairman of Pan Niger Delta Forum, he galvanised the Niger Delta region to demand for their rights, sparking a national conversation on restructuring and true federalism.
“The Ijaw National Congress, where he was the Chairman of the Board of Trustees until his demise, will feel his absence profoundly, particularly during this critical period of advocating for total resource control and revisiting the Willink’s Commission Report,” he said.
The INC publicity secretary added that Clark’s legacy would continue to inspire generations yet unborn to fight for a just and equitable society.
•Clark’s unexpected passing leaves a void in Nigeria’s history – CUPP
National Secretary of the CUPP, Mr. Peter Ameh, says the unexpected passing of a prominent Ijaw leader has left a void in Nigeria’s history.
“As a renowned leader and advocate for equity and inclusion, Clark left an indelible mark on the country’s history.
“His unwavering commitment to national participation, diversity and truth inspired generations of Nigerians.
“Clark’s remarkable life was a testament to his dedication to the country’s development and unity.
“As a federal commissioner for information under Gen. Yakubu Gowon’s military government, Clark played a key role in shaping government policies.
“Throughout his life, Clark remained a fierce advocate for the Niger Delta people, championing their rights and interests.
“His activism led to the creation of PANDEF, a socio-political group, for regional interests.
“Clark’s influence extended beyond the Niger Delta, as he actively participated in constitutional reforms and democratic development, and also protected the rights of every oppressed citizen of Nigeria,” he said.
Ameh also said Clark’s legacy was a reminder that leadership was not about personal gain but about serving others.
“He will be deeply missed, but his impact on Nigeria’s political and economic landscape will continue to inspire future generations.
“His passing has left a void in our lives, and we shall deeply miss his counsel and fatherly advice.
“His legacy, however, will continue to inspire us and we shall strive to uphold the values he embodied,” he said.
• Ijaw Nation has lost its voice
The Ijaw Women Connect (IWC) said with the demise of Pa Edwin Clark, the Ijaw Nation has lost its voice.
Mrs Rosemary Naingba-Oduone, Founder/Pioneer President of IWC-Worldwide, said this in a statement on Tuesday in Yenagoa.
The IWC founder, therefore, said “the passage of Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark is a colossal loss to the people of the Ijaw ethnic nationality, the Niger Delta and the South South geo-political region at large.
“With a heavy heart, we mourn the passing of our father, mentor and fearless Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark.
“His wisdom, courage and unwavering dedication to the Ijaw nation and Nigeria as a whole, shaped generations. To me, he was more than a leader, he was family, a guiding elder whose words and presence gave strength.
“Pa Clark as we fondly called him was a Pan Niger Delta nationalist and Nigerian renowned elder statesman known for his fearless disposition to national issues.”
Naingba-Oduone, who described the death as a shocker, noted that his legacy would
never fade.
“My heart aches, knowing he is no longer with us, but I find solace in the impact he made. Nigeria has lost a giant”, she added.
•Yakasai: Huge loss
Elder statesman, Tanko Yakasai, who spoke to Daily Sun from Abuja described the passing of foremost Ijaw leader as a painful loss, saying that coming a few days after the passing of Chief Adebanjo, it was a shocking blow for Nigerians.
Yakasai noted that the late Chief Clark was a courageous voice of truth and justice in Nigeria, adding that he never failed to speak boldly against injustice until his very last days on earth.
He also stressed that Clark was a fighter for the rights of minority communities in Nigeria and had done far more than any other person to advance their causes, both at home and abroad
Yakasai, aged 99, also said it was a personal loss to him and his family adding that he had been close friend with the deceased right from their days as information commissioners during the Gowon administration.
He maintained that they had remained good friends ever since despite their occasional differences on public policies and politics.
•Unique, potent voice in S’South – Tompolo
Dr. Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known Tompolo, has expressed sadness and shock over the demise of High Chief Dr. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, a foremost Ijaw national leader.
Tompolo, in a condolence message to the family he personally signed, said that Clark’s death would leave a vacuum in the country’s leadership structure.
He described the former federal information commissioner and South-South leader, as an illustrious father of the Ijaw nation.
“The news came to me with a rude shock, as I was not expecting this kind of news this morning”, he said.
He said that though Clark was old, he was full of life and kicking, “hence, I was surprised to hear of his death this morning”.
Tompolo said that Nigeria has lost its unique and potent voice in the South-South geopolitical zone, which was a “unique gift from God.”
The Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation and Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, said as a democratic and socio-economic crusader., Senator Clark was a strong, fearless, and irrepressible individual who spoke truth to power.
“He was a voice for the voiceless and a father for the fatherless. We will miss him.
“I pray that God Almighty gives the family and the country the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”
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