President Tinubu mourns elder statesman Edwin Clark
By Kunle Sanni
President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Chief Edwin Clark, a 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 widely known for his advocacy on resource control, economic justice, and environmental rights in the Niger Delta.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described Clark’s death as a “deeply sobering loss” and paid tribute to his decades of service to Nigeria.
“Chief Clark was a towering figure whose influence shaped Nigeria’s political landscape for nearly six decades. He was a courageous leader who stood firmly for what he believed in and was never afraid to stand alone in the face of injustice,” Tinubu stated.
Born on May 25, 1927, in Kiagbodo, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, Chief Clark served in various capacities, including as a councillor, state and federal cabinet member, and a leading advocate for national unity and true federalism.
The President highlighted Clark’s enduring commitment to national cohesion, describing him as a statesman who “believed in a united Nigeria and worked tirelessly to preserve national unity based on justice and equity.”
Acknowledging his fearless approach to politics, Tinubu noted that even Chief Clark’s political opponents respected his convictions.
“His words carried weight, confidence, and conviction. He was a patriot who will be remembered for his relentless fight for the rights of the Niger Delta people and for strengthening Nigeria’s federal structure,” the President said.
On behalf of the federal government, Tinubu extended condolences to the Clark family, the Ijaw nation, the people of the Niger Delta, and the government of Delta State.
He also prayed for divine comfort for Chief Clark’s loved ones, emphasizing that his contributions to national development would be remembered for generations.
