President Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness over the passing of former Federal Commissioner for Information and respected leader of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum, Chief Edwin Clark.
Tinubu’s condolence message was contained in a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Tuesday.
The president reflected on Clark’s illustrious life, highlighting his dedicated service to the nation, and his community in various capacities, including as a councillor and a member of both state and federal cabinets.
Tinubu conveyed his condolences to Clark’s family, the Ijaw nation, the people of the Niger Delta, and the Delta State Government.
He described Clark’s death as a significant loss, remarking on his lasting influence in Nigeria’s political landscape for nearly 60 years.
The president characterized Clark as a courageous leader who advocated for resource control and environmental justice, emphasizing his commitment to national unity based on justice and equity.
Acknowledging Clark’s role as a voice for the Niger Delta and the nation, Tinubu noted that Clark’s patriotic interventions on national issues were deeply impactful.
He recognized Clark as a lawyer and educationist who continually promoted collaboration across regional lines to foster national unity.
Tinubu concluded by praying for divine comfort for all those affected by this profound loss, honouring Clark’s legacy as a steadfast advocate for the rights of the Niger Delta people and true federalism.
“On behalf of the federal government, the president extends his condolences to the Edwin Clark family, the Ijaw nation, the people of the Niger Delta, and the government of Delta State.
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“Chief Clark was a towering figure whose influence was felt across Nigeria’s political firmament for nearly six decades. Chief Clark was a courageous leader who stood for what he believed in and was never afraid to stand alone in the face of injustice.
“Chief Clark spoke for the Niger Delta. He spoke for the nation. His views and interventions on national issues were distinct and patriotic.
“Pa Clark, a lawyer and educationist, believed in a united Nigeria, and until his last breath, he never stopped reaching out to people from different parts of the country to work together to preserve national unity based on justice and equity,” the president added.
Tinubu prayed for divine comfort for Chief Clark’s family, friends, and all those affected by this significant loss.
