Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, a prominent South-South leader and elder statesman, passed away on Monday night at the age of 97.
His family disclosed that his final words were a heartfelt affirmation of his patriotism: “I am a Nigerian, I love Nigeria, Nigeria is my country, I am proud to be a Nigerian.”
Clark, who was admitted to DIFF Medical Centre in Abuja, died around 11:45 p.m. on Monday, just months shy of his 98th birthday, which would have been on May 25, 2025.
In his final moments, he urged those he left behind, particularly members of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) and the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders’ Forum (SMBLF), to persist in their efforts toward restructuring Nigeria.
According to them, “Chief Clark said in his last hours that the people must not have a ‘giving up spirit,’ assuring that they would surely succeed in making Nigeria a better society again”.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining a resilient spirit, expressing confidence that their endeavors would lead to a better Nigerian society.
Before his condition became critical, Clark expressed a desire for his passing to be met with celebration rather than mourning.
He instructed that visitors to his home during this period should be welcomed with food and drinks, reflecting his wish for a convivial atmosphere.
The news of his death prompted an outpouring of tributes from national leaders and organizations. President Bola Tinubu described Clark as a courageous leader who consistently stood for his beliefs.
“Chief Clark spoke for the Niger Delta; he spoke for the nation. His views and interventions on national issues were distinct and patriotic,” Tinubu stated.
He lauded Clark’s unwavering commitment to national unity, justice, and equity, noting that history will remember him as a patriot who fought for the rights of the Niger Delta people and true federalism.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo also paid homage, highlighting Clark’s role as a courageous leader who was never afraid to stand alone in the face of injustice. Obasanjo emphasized that Clark’s death signifies a depletion of the nation’s pool of patriotic and committed leaders.
In a similar vein, former President Goodluck Jonathan described Clark as a bridge-builder and patriot. Jonathan noted that the late elder statesman was a father figure, peerless icon, and relentless crusader for justice who devoted his life to the betterment of society.
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, also expressed their condolences, acknowledging Clark’s significant contributions to national unity and development.
Akpabio referred to him as a “nationalist of repute,” while Obi highlighted Clark’s unwavering commitment to justice and equity.
In honor of Clark’s legacy, the Bayelsa State government directed that all flags fly at half-mast for three days. This gesture reflects the profound impact Clark had on the Niger Delta region and the nation at large.
Chief Edwin Clark’s life was marked by his steadfast dedication to the Nigerian nation. As a lawyer, educationist, and politician, he held various significant positions, including serving as a Federal Commissioner for Information and as a senator.
Beyond his political career, Clark was a vocal advocate for the rights of the Niger Delta people, championing causes such as resource control and fiscal federalism. His leadership roles in PANDEF and SMBLF underscored his commitment to regional and national unity.
