Nigeria’s political elite, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former President Goodluck Jonathan, converged in Kiagbodo, Delta State, on Tuesday to honor the life and legacy of the late elder statesman, Chief Edwin Clark Kiagbodo, during a high-profile funeral service held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church.
The emotional ceremony drew an impressive roll call of national leaders and prominent figures, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his wife, Tobore, as well as Governors Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), and Bala Mohammed (Bauchi). The Deputy Governor of Delta, Sir Monday Onyeme, and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa were also in attendance, alongside other dignitaries such as Senators Joel-Onowhakpo Thomas, Ede Dafinone, Henry Seriake Dickson, and former Rivers Governor Chief Rufus Ada George.
Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, President Tinubu described Chief Clark as a fearless patriot, unrelenting in his pursuit of justice and national unity. “Pa Clark was a passionate advocate for resource control and equity. He stood as a beacon of courage for the Niger Delta and the Nigerian nation. His words carried weight because they were laced with sincerity and patriotism. Even his political opponents never doubted his integrity,” the President stated.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan paid glowing tribute to the late nationalist, describing him as a fearless voice for the voiceless and a lifelong champion of justice and inclusivity. “He was more than a political figure; he was a moral compass for our nation. From his days as Federal Commissioner to his latter years as a revered elder statesman, Pa Clark never stopped advocating for minority rights and good governance,” Jonathan said, accompanied by his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio echoed the sentiments, calling Clark a towering figure who embodied both Nigerian and Pan-African ideals. “He was never afraid to speak truth to power. Pa Clark was a man of principles who stood firm when others chose convenience. His legacy of advocacy and integrity will continue to inspire generations,” Akpabio said.
In his own tribute, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori praised the late Clark as a fearless and vocal defender of justice. “Chief Edwin Clark was the conscience of the Niger Delta. He lived a fulfilled life and left behind a legacy of activism, courage, and unwavering commitment to national development. He was a teacher, public servant, and voice of the marginalized. His leadership will be sorely missed,” the Governor noted.
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Oborevwori called on Niger Delta leaders to unite in preserving Clark’s vision for the region. “Let us rally around visionary leaders like former President Jonathan and Senate President Akpabio. We must set aside personal interests and work together for the good of our people. Pa Clark’s dream must not die with him.”
Delivering a powerful sermon, Archbishop Cyril Odutemu of the Anglican Communion, Bendel Province, described Chief Clark as a man of rare integrity and unwavering conviction. Quoting Proverbs 22:1, he said, “A good name is better than riches,” adding that the late icon’s life exemplified sacrificial service and moral uprightness. The cleric lamented the growing influence of false prophecies in Nigeria and urged the country to return to the path of righteousness, justice, and integrity as espoused by its founding fathers.
Archbishop Odutemu further referenced Matthew 6:33, charging Nigerians to seek first the kingdom of God and uphold values that elevate the nation above selfish gains.
The passing of Chief Edwin Clark marks the end of an era for the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large. Known for his fearless commentary on national issues, Clark was an unrelenting critic of injustice and corruption, a voice of the marginalized, and a defender of democratic values.
As tributes pour in and flags fly at half-mast, the memory of Chief Clark remains etched in the hearts of millions as a symbol of bold leadership, national pride, and unshakable resolve.
