Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has extended condolences to the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town in Delta State, over the passing of their father, Chief Edwin Clark at 97 years.
Gov. Fubara said the tragic news of the death of Chief Edwin Clark, made public on behalf of the family by Prof C. C. Clark, is rather heart-wrenching, given the impact of such a loss.
In a statement issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, Gov. Fubara expressed deep sadness over the loss of the elder statesman
Gov. Fubara stated that despite his age, Clark remained active, serving as a beacon of hope and conscience to leaders in government.
“He kept in touch with national issues and did not cease from providing elderly counsel to leaders at various levels, in pursuit of responsible and responsive leadership in Nigeria,” he said
The governor noted that Chief Edwin Clark, as a courageous Ijaw leader, nationalist, and freedom fighter, demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to the unity of Nigeria, and boldly defended the rights of the minorities, especially Niger Deltans.
“He has left indelible footprints as a nationalist for the inspiring roles he played in the Middle-Belt Leaders Forum (MBLF), and as leader of Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF). I pray the Almighty God to grant the repose of his soul and reward his courageous services to the Niger Delta region and Nigeria,” the governor added.
Gov. Fubara also consoled the family, saying: “As you navigate this dark period, remember that you are not alone. May the Almighty God, grant you the strength and fortitude to bear this painful loss.”
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In a related development, the Ijaw Women Connect (IWC), on Tuesday, said that with the demise of Pa Edwin Clark, the Ijaw Nation has lost its voice.
Founder/pioneer President IWC Worldwide Mrs. Rosemary Naingba-Oduone, made this known in a statement in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
“The passage of Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark is a colossal loss to the people of the Ijaw ethnic nationality, Niger Delta and the South South geo-political region at large. With a heavy heart, we mourn the passing of our father, mentor, and fearless Ijaw leader.
“His wisdom, courage, and unwavering dedication to the Ijaw nation and Nigeria as a whole, shaped generations. To me, he was more than a leader—he was family, a guiding elder whose words and presence gave strength.
“Pa Clark as we fondly called him was a pan -Niger Delta nationalist and Nigerian renowned elder statesman known for his fearless disposition to national issues,” the statement read.
