Edwin Clark: Consistently Speaking Truth to Power

Sunday Aborisade chronicles the life and times of elder statesman, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, who passed away in his sleep on Monday.

Elderstatesman and prominent leader of the Ijaw nation, Chief Edwin Clark, who died on Monday at the ripe age of 97, would be remembered for his frankness when it comes to national issues and whatever affects his oil-rich Niger-Delta region.

The Federal Commissioner for Information in the First Republic who also served as Senator in the Second Republic, would have clocked 98 on May 25.

The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town in Delta State, announced the Ijaw leader’s demise in the early hours of Tuesday. A statement issued by Prof. C. C. Clark, on behalf of the the family and Mr. Penawei Clark for the children, explained that the burial details would be announced later.

“The Clark family wishes to announce the passing of Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark OFR, CON  on Monday 17th February, 2025.

“The family appreciates your prayers at this time. Other details will be announced later by the family,” the statement added.

Promptly the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) in a press statement by its Chairman, Ambassador  Godknows Igali, described Clark’s demise as the fall of a “mighty Iroko tree.”

PANDEF highlighted Clark’s towering contributions to public service, politics, and community development for over 75 years.

The statement read in part, “A distinguished lawyer, activist, and politician, Chief Edwin Clark was a prominent leader of the South-South region of Nigeria and the Ijaw ethnic nationality.

“He founded PANDEF and co-led the South and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF), advocating tirelessly for justice, equality, and human rights.

“Throughout his career, Chief Clark was known for his outspoken defense of marginalised communities and his relentless pursuit of a fair and equitable society.

“His contributions extended beyond politics into the legal profession, education, and community development, where he founded several universities.

“Pa Clark was indeed a towering figure in Nigeria, known for his tireless advocacy for justice and human rights.

 “His brilliant mind and generous spirit will continue to inspire future generations to strive for a more just and compassionate society.

“The Pan Nigerian leader died, just months before his 98th birthday after he had served the purpose of God in his own generation, he fell asleep and was allowed to rest.”

Chief Clark’s passing came shortly after the death of his longtime associate and fellow elder statesman, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, prompting further reflection on the end of an era in Nigeria’s political and social landscape.

The statement concluded by noting that details of his funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.

Also in his statement titled, “The Passing of a Pillar, The Loss of a Nation’s Conscience,” Senate President Godswill Akpabio said, an era has drawn to a solemn end with the death of Clark.

Akpabio said, “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 statement further read, “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,” Akpabio added.

Clark’s involvement in the political struggle began during the pre-independence period when he was elected as Councillor for Bomadi in 1953.

He later joined National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC). While a student at Holborn College, he was active in the West African Students’ Union.

After the military coup of January, 1966, Clark was among a group of delegates from the Mid-West who opposed any ideas of confederation that were raised at an ad-hoc constitutional conference set up by Gowon in 1966.

The delegation’s mandate was Nigerian unity and when proposals of a loose federation were tabled, the region’s delegates asked for adjournment.

Clark was later appointed Midwestern Commissioner of Education and later, Finance.

As commissioner for education, he was active in the establishment of a Mid-west College of Technology that became the foundation of the University of Benin.

During the second republic, he was a member of the national executive committee of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) and was the treasurer of the party in Bendel State (now, in part, Delta State and previously the Mid-Western Region province).

In 1983, he was elected senator for three months at the twilight of the Shehu Shagari administration.

From 1996, Clark has been a self-described leader of the Ijaw nation. He supported the Ijaw ethnic group in Delta State during an ethnic crisis in Warri and had led Ijaw leadership delegations to meet political leaders.

Early callers at his Asokoro, Abuja residence on Tuesday morning said they took solace in knowing that though he had left this earthly realm, his legacy is indelible.

“His memory will forever stand as a beacon of hope and courage for generations yet unborn,” one of them remarked.