Gowon remembers Clark as dedicated nationalist

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

Former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon (retd) has shared his reflections on the life and contributions of Pa Edwin Clark, who passed away on Monday at the age of 97.

Gowon, who said he knew the Clark family since 1957 in Ibadan, described Clark as a dedicated nationalist who consistently prioritised the good of Nigeria.

Gowon, who paid a condolence visit to Pa Clark’s Asokoro residence, recalled the late elder statesman’s instrumental roles as both education and finance commissioner, highlighting his ability to handle diverse responsibilities.

He also emphasised Clark’s dedication to Nigeria’s unity, recalling how his former commissioner for information fearlessly defended the government and projected its image, even during a coup while he, as head of state, was away in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Gowon also noted Clark’s personal sacrifices, such as sending his daughter to a school in Enugu during the civil war, mirroring his commitment to national unity.

The former head of state added that Clark was an all-rounder who advised and argued on issues, always prioritising the good of the country above political affiliations.

Gowon concluded by saying that Clark was a father, friend, and colleague who rallied people from all over Nigeria, and he will be greatly missed for his contributions to the nation and the African race.

General Lawrence Onoja (rtd), a former Military Administrator and current Vice Chair of the Middle Belt Forum, also paid his respects to the family of the late Clark. Onoja offered his condolences and reflected on Clark’s significant impact on Nigeria, particularly his advocacy for minority rights.

“I condole with Clark’s family and all of us who knew him,” Onoja stated, highlighting the personal bond he shared with the elder statesman. “He fought for the minority in this country. I believed so much in him as he believed in me.”

Onoja addressed the issue of marginalisation, referencing past sentiments suggesting that a minority individual should be denied a second term in office solely based on their ethnic background. He championed Clark’s vision of unity, urging all Nigerians, especially those from minority groups, to unite for the common good.

“For people in the minority whom he said all of us must be one, let’s all unite,” Onoja urged.

The retired General concluded his remarks by hailing Clark as “a legend,” emphasising his enduring intellect and sharp mind, even in death.

Former Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Solomon Arase also paid tribute, reflecting on his relationship with Edwin Clark, whom he described as an icon and a source of support during crises. It is worth noting that Arase was removed from his position as Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC) by President Bola Tinubu on June 10, 2024, after serving only about 16 months of his four-year term. This decision had sparked controversy, with the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) denouncing the action as unwarranted and indicative of a lack of regard for the nation’s laws.

Pa Clark had also criticised the removal, accusing the president of sacrificing competence and integrity for favouritism.

A representative of the Olu of Warri, Ologbotsere of Warri, Chief Oma Eyewuoma, said they were asked to pay their respects to the “colossus of the Niger Delta,” saying, “We have a lot to learn from the life that he lived. Because of the clean heart that he had, that was why he was mentally and physically sound till the very end.”