● Says Pa Clark’s Contribution to Nation Building Enormous
The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of elder statesman and foremost Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark.
Clark, who was a prominent figure in Nigerian politics and a key advocate for the Niger Delta and the South-South region, died at the age of 97 on Monday, February 17, 2025. His passing was officially announced by his immediate family.
In a statement signed by Mr. Igoniko Oduma, Special Assistant on Media to the Administrator, Presidential Amnesty Programme, on February 18, 2025, Otuaro described the loss as monumental, stating that Clark’s contributions to Nigeria, the Ijaw nation, the Niger Delta, and other minority groups in the country were unparalleled.
A Towering Political Figure
Otuaro extolled Clark as “a great patriot, nationalist, teacher, lawyer, administrator, and a towering figure in Nigerian politics who made immense contributions to the political development and unity of the country.”
He noted that Clark’s public service records, spanning both pre-colonial and post-colonial Nigeria, were “legendary, and a manifestation of his unwavering commitment and dedication to nation building.”
Mentor and Advocate for Justice
The PAP boss also highlighted Clark’s role as a charismatic leader and mentor under whose guidance major socio-political organizations, such as the Ijaw National Congress (INC), South South Peoples Assembly, Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), and the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders’ Forum (SMBLF), became “strong leading voices for regional and national cohesion built on the principles of equity, fairness and justice.”
He further described Clark as “a fearless Ijaw man” who was “a tireless and consistent freedom fighter for minority rights and a powerful advocate for true federalism, resource control, environmental justice, economic development, and better living conditions for his people in the Niger Delta.”
A Personal Influence
Reflecting on Clark’s impact on his own life, Otuaro acknowledged that he had personally benefited from the late statesman’s wisdom.
“As a growing young Ijaw man, I learnt and benefitted valuable life-lessons at the feet of the departed elder statesman which had helped me a great deal in my life,” he stated.
He also praised Clark’s remarkable intellect and sharp memory, noting that even in old age, the late leader remained “a reservoir of knowledge and wisdom.”
Condolences and Prayers
Expressing his deep sorrow, Otuaro described Clark as “a warrior-father” and extended his heartfelt condolences to the Clark family, the Ijaw nation, and the people of the Niger Delta.
He concluded by praying for God to grant Clark’s soul eternal rest and to comfort his loved ones.
