CONDOLENCE
President Bola Tinubu mourns Chief Edwin Clark
“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.
President Bola Tinubu prays for divine Comfort for Chief Clark’s family, friends, and all those affected by this significant loss.
18.02.25
David Mark Mourns Edwin Clark, Ayo Adebanjo
****** Describes them as last of the titans
Former President of the Senate, Senator David Mark has lamented over the demise of two elder statesmen and patriots: former Federal Commissioner for Information, Pa Edwin Kiagbodo Clark and Pa Ayo Adebanjo.
“Their demise marks the end of an era thus, creating a void in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape,” Mark stated.
Senator Mark described Clark and Adebanjo as the “last of the conscience of the nation, who tirelessly fought for a progressive Nigeria of equal opportunities for all.
“Both elder statesmen were united in their quest for an egalitarian society, free from oppression and marginalization.”
Senator Mark added that their exit is painful and regrettable, especially at this time when Nigeria needs men of good conscience and valour to address the numerous challenges.
However, Senator Mark noted that Clark and Adebanjo may not have seen a Nigeria of their dreams but they have laid a solid foundation for future growth and development.
Senator Mark therefore urged the President Bola Tinubu led Federal Government, to immortalize Clark and Adebanjo for their selfless services and contributions to Nigeria.
He hopes that the ideals of patriotism, equal opportunities, unity, peace, and progress which the departed elder statesmen advocated will inspire Nigeria’s future growth.
The former Senate boss also consoles the immediate families, governments, and people of Ogun and Delta States just as he urged them to find solace in the credible legacies left behind by the two elder statesmen.
Signed:
Paul Mumeh,
Media Adviser to Senator David Mark.
Pa Edwin Clark: The Passing of a Pillar, The Loss of a Nation’s Conscience
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio
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 an 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, His Excellency Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON, in a deeply felt condolence message, described Pa Clark’s demise as a monumental loss to Nigeria, the Niger Delta, and all who cherish unity, fairness, and national progress.
“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 councillor, 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 all of the responsibility that comes with 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—it is about duty.
“Pa Clark’s remarkable life was marked by strength and an undying commitment to the unity of this country. His voice, though now silenced, 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, his encouragement a reflection of 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 greater 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 stand as a beacon of hope and courage for generations yet unborn.
Rest in perfect peace, dear father, elder statesman, and patriot.
In Edwin Clark’s Death, Nigeria Lost A Voice
Dr Dakuku Peterside
Fomer Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dakuku Peterside says 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 propriety of the cause, he puts his all, even against his safety.
“A sizable 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.”
