Nigeria has lost one of its most distinguished elder statesmen, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, who passed away on Monday, February 17, 2025, at the age of 97. Edwin Clark, a former Federal Commissioner of Information and a tireless advocate for the Niger Delta, was widely regarded as a fearless defender of justice, equity, and true federalism.
His passing was confirmed in a statement released by his family on Tuesday morning, detailing his life and contributions to Nigeria’s political and socio-economic development. Born in Kiagbodo, Delta State, Clark was an educationist, lawyer, politician, and nationalist whose influence spanned decades. His demise has triggered an outpouring of grief and tributes from prominent leaders across the country, including President Bola Tinubu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, governors, and other political and socio-cultural groups.
Tinubu, FG, and National Assembly Mourn an Icon
President Bola Tinubu led the nation in mourning Edwin Clark, describing him as a courageous leader whose legacy will be etched in Nigeria’s history. In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu extolled Clark’s patriotism, stating that he was never afraid to stand alone in the face of injustice.
“Chief Edwin Clark spoke for the Niger Delta. He spoke for the nation. His views and interventions on national issues were distinct and patriotic,” Tinubu said. “His efforts contributed immensely to national prosperity and stability. Many generations will remain proud of his dedication to the unity and progress of Nigeria.”
The Federal Government, through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, acknowledged Clark’s relentless advocacy for justice and equity. Idris emphasized that Clark’s contributions to Nigeria’s democracy and governance left a lasting imprint on the country’s political landscape.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio described Clark’s death as a monumental loss, praising his life of service, conviction, and dedication to justice. Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, also paid tribute, stating that Clark fought tirelessly for the Niger Delta region and the betterment of Nigeria.
Obasanjo, Governors Express Grief Over Edwin Clark’s Passing
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo lamented the depletion of Nigeria’s patriotic leaders, particularly at a critical time when their wisdom and experience were greatly needed. In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo praised Clark’s lifelong commitment to improving conditions in the oil-rich Niger Delta.
“His passing is especially painful, coming just days after the loss of Chief Ayo Adebanjo. Edwin Clark was a fearless advocate for the marginalized and a dedicated voice for true federalism,” Obasanjo stated.
The Nigeria Governors’ Forum, in a statement signed by its Chairman, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, paid tribute to Clark’s contributions to the country’s democratic evolution. The Southern Governors’ Forum, led by Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, described Clark as “arguably the most engaging voice seeking redress for the Niger Delta’s decades of exploitation and marginalization.”
Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum, Governor Muhammadu Yahaya, hailed Edwin Clark as an upright and relentless advocate for fairness, emphasizing that his death was a profound loss for the entire country. Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, and Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas also extolled Clark’s legacy, describing him as a nationalist and statesman who fought for justice and good governance.
PANDEF, Afenifere, and Other Groups Salute a Titan
The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), which Clark founded, mourned his passing, calling him a tireless advocate for justice and a voice for the Niger Delta. PANDEF’s National Chairman, Dr. Godknows Igali, noted that Clark’s unwavering commitment to national unity and equity would continue to inspire future generations.
The Ijaw National Congress (INC) also expressed profound grief, with its President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, emphasizing that Clark’s death left a major vacuum. “He was the irrepressible voice of not just the Ijaw people but also the Niger Delta and marginalized ethnic minorities across West Africa,” Okaba stated.
Similarly, the Yoruba socio-political group Afenifere, through its National Publicity Secretary, commended Clark’s dedication to Nigeria’s progress. The Patriots, under the chairmanship of Chief Emeka Anyaoku, noted that Clark was a formidable voice in advocating for a new constitution and a return to true federalism.
The Middle Belt Forum President, Bitrus Pogu, hailed Edwin Clark as a leader who dedicated his life to justice, peace, and the welfare of Nigeria’s marginalized communities. Other notable figures, including former Inspector General of Police Mike Okiro and Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland Gani Adams, echoed similar sentiments, lauding Clark’s contributions to national discourse and advocacy.
A Legacy That Will Endure
Chief Edwin Clark’s passing marks the end of an era in Nigerian political activism. His life was dedicated to fighting for the rights of the Niger Delta, the establishment of true federalism, and the promotion of justice and equity.
Throughout his career, Clark played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s governance, from his time as a Federal Commissioner of Information to his leadership within PANDEF and the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum. His legacy as a fearless nationalist and advocate for marginalized communities will remain a guiding light for future generations.
As Nigeria mourns, leaders across the political spectrum agree on one thing: Edwin Clark’s impact on the nation will never be forgotten. His voice, though now silent, will continue to echo in the annals of history, inspiring the continued fight for justice, fairness, and national unity.
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