The demise of Late Pa Edwin Clark has brought together prominent dignitaries from all works of life to his funeral Monday in Bayelsa state Nigeria, 9News reports.
At a commendation service held Monday in Yenagoa Bayelsa state Nigeria, prominent leaders from the Ijaw nation and Nigeria at large , including former President Goodluck Jonathan, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, former Governor Seriake Dickson, Peter Obi, and INC President Prof. Benjamin Okaba, paid glowing tributes to the late Niger Delta elder statesman.
Speaking, Dr. Jonathan described Late Clark as a selfless leader who lived for others and called for unity among the Ijaw people as a way to honour his legacy. Governor Diri said Clark’s life embodied courage and commitment to justice, announcing that Bayelsa would immortalise him by naming key landmarks after notable Ijaw icons.
Also, Ex-Governor of Anambra State and labour party presidential candidate, Peter Obi praised Clark’s lifelong pursuit of equity and national unity, noting that his voice resonated far beyond his ethnic roots and stood firm for the downtrodden.
Other dignitaries, including Senator Dickson, PANDEF Chairman Dr. Godknows Igali, and IYC President Jonathan Lokpobiri, hailed the glowing legacies established by Pa Edwin Clark during his years in active national assignments.
The 97-year-old died as a fearless defender of the oppressed and a bridge-builder across Nigeria as investigated by 9News.
In furtherance, Chief Edwin Clark was a renowned Nigerian nationalist, statesman, and leader of the Ijaw people.
He was born in 1927 and passed away on February 17, 2025, at the age of 97. Clark was a strong advocate for national unity, true federalism, and justice, leaving an indelible mark on Nigeria’s governance, unity, and development.
He was Commissioner for Information in the Midwest Region. Clark served in this role, showcasing his dedication to public service.
As a Senator of the Federal Republic, Late Pa Edwin Clark served and represented his constituency with distinction.
As leader of Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Clark championed the rights of the Niger Delta region and promoted unity among Nigeria’s ethnic nationalities.
9News reports that Chief Clark also advocated and vocally supported restructuring Nigeria’s federal system for more equitable resource distribution and greater autonomy for regions.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari, President Tinubu, South East and South South Governors and the entire humanity, mostly those who shared political experience with him, described Clark’s passing as a national loss, praising his dedication to national unity.
Many leaders, including former President Goodluck Jonathan and Senator Godswill Akpabio, eulogized Clark for his tireless advocacy for justice, equity, and good governance.
No doubt, Clark’s commitment to true federalism and resource control earned him admiration from various parts of the country.
9News Nigeria team join the rest of the world to celebrate Late Edwin while praying for God’s consolation to his family.
-Princely Onyenwe reporting
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