President Bola Tinubu has expressed his deep sadness following the passing of Chief Edwin Clark, former federal commissioner for information and a respected leader of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF).
Chief Clark, who passed away at the age of 97, was born on May 25, 1927, in Kiagbodo, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State.
In a statement released by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu reflected on the late statesman’s remarkable contributions to Nigeria, describing his passing as a “deeply sobering loss.”
He praised Chief Clark for his tireless service to both the nation and his community, noting that the late leader was “a towering figure whose influence was felt across Nigeria’s political firmament for nearly six decades.”
“Chief Clark led an illustrious life marked by dedicated service, at different times, to the nation and his community as a councillor, state and federal cabinet member,” President Tinubu stated.
“He was also a passionate advocate for resource control, economic and environmental justice in the Niger Delta.”
The President extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of Chief Clark, the Ijaw nation, the people of the Niger Delta, and the government of Delta State on behalf of the federal government.
Reflecting on Chief Clark’s courage and unwavering commitment, President Tinubu noted, “Chief Clark was a courageous leader who stood for what he believed in and was never afraid to stand alone in the face of injustice.”
He continued, “Chief Clark spoke for the Niger Delta. He spoke for the nation. His views and interventions on national issues were distinct and patriotic.”
The President also highlighted Chief Clark’s lifelong commitment to unity and national progress. “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.”
Describing Clark as an astute politician, President Tinubu said that his political opponents respected the “weight, confidence, and conviction” of his words. “Indeed, a patriot has transitioned to the great beyond,” the President concluded.
