Niger Delta loses one of its biggest champions as elder statesman Edwin Clarkes passes away

PAN Niger Delta Forum (Pandef) leader and former federal commissioner for information Chief Edwin Clarke has passed away at the ripe old age of 97 bringing about an end to almost a century of involvement in Nigeria's political affairs.

Chief Clarke, served as the commissioner for education in the Mid-Western Region from 1968 to 1971 and later as the commissioner for finance and establishment in the defunct Bendel State between 1972 and 1975. At the federal level, he was appointed federal commissioner for Information in 1975 and subsequently became a senator from 1979 to 1983.

Family spokesman Professor C C Clarke, said: “The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, wishes to announce the passing of Chief (Dr) Senator 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.”

Chief Clark’s death is coming on the heels of the passing of Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, who died at the age of 96 just a few days ago. Both Chief Clark and Pa Adebanjo are known for being passionate advocates for the political development of the country.

In 2022, Pa Adebanjo and Chief Clark attended the Greater Nigeria Conference (GNC), which was held in Abuja to deliberate on the emergence of the next Nigerian president from the southeast geo-political zone. The GNC was a pan-Nigeria dialogue organised by a global Igbo think tank, Nzuko Umunna, to canvass support for a presidential candidate from the region during the 2023 general elections.

A towering figure in Nigerian politics and a relentless advocate for the rights of the Niger Delta, Chief Clark was a lawyer, administrator, nationalist and freedom fighter. Chief Clark was a leading voice for regional and national unity and was also known for mediating peace among warring communities and politicians in the Niger Delta region.

Recently, he set up a committee to reconcile Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State and his erstwhile political godfather Nyesom Wike. That committee was headed by a former Akwa Ibom governor Obong Victor Attah, the co-chairman of Pandef's board of trustees.

A former director-general of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Dr Dakuku Peterside, has described the passing of Chief Clark, as a monumental loss to Nigeria. He said the late leader was a voice, patriot, statesman, defender, and shining light whose contributions to national discourse and the Niger Delta struggle would not be forgotten.

Dr Peterside added:  “The passing of Chief Edwin Clark has created a vacuum that will be too huge to fill. He was a true Nigerian hero who spoke truth to power and made immense sacrifices to defend the rights and privileges of minorities.”

He further noted that Chief Clark was unwavering in his advocacy for a better deal for the Niger Delta, ensuring the region benefitted from government policies, projects and appointments. Dr Peterside lauded Chief Clark’s courage and selflessness, describing him as a mentor and role model who dedicated his life to fighting for the common Nigerian, regardless of background.