The Bayelsa State Governor Senator Douye Diri has described the foremost elder statesman Pa Chief Kiagbodo Edwin Clark as a consummate Pan-Africanist, a relentless crusader for justice, fairness and equality.
The Governor stated this while speaking at the Memorial Lecture and Day of Tribute held in honour of Pa Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark OFR, CON at NAF Conference Centre Kado in Abuja.
Senator Diri who was represented by the Secretary to State Government Professor Nimibofa Ayawei
eloquently exalted the virtues of Pa Clark, as a elder statesman whose influence transcended the Niger Delta struggle to embrace the broader vision of a united and prosperous Nigeria.
He stressed that Pa Clark was a consummate Pan-Africanist, a relentless crusader for justice, fairness, and equality in all ramifications.
The Governor added that the former Federal Minister of Information’s commitment to true federalism, peace, and stability in Nigeria and the South-South region and beyond marked him as a towering titan in Nigerian politics.
“A distinguished lawyer, politician, and advocate, Pa Clark’s contributions to nation-building were profound and enduring. He served with distinction as the Midwestern Commissioner for Education and Finance, Federal Commissioner of Information under General Yakubu Gowon GCFR, and as a Senator during Nigeria’s Second Republic. Beyond his official roles, he was a founding father of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), tirelessly championing the rights and development of the Niger Delta people.”
Pa Clark, the Governor also pointed out, was not only a bridge builder who fostered unity among diverse ethnic groups, but also a mentor par excellence who inspired generations of leaders with his wisdom, integrity, and vision. “His warmth, wit, and large heart were balanced by a stern commitment to principles and compassion for the marginalized. He was a beacon of hope and a symbol of resilience, whose legacy continues to resonate deeply within the Ijaw Nation and across Nigeria.
At the age of 97, his passing has left an irreplaceable void in Nigerian politics and the Niger Delta community. Yet, his legacies of courage, unity, selfless service, and dedication to the ideals of democracy and true federalism remain a guiding light for current and future generations.
As many have rightly observed, there will never be another Pa Chief E.K. Clark. His life lessons and enduring light will forever guide the nation’s path towards justice, equity, and national cohesion. As a government, we are committed to honoring his memory by participating fully in his forthcoming burial rites, ensuring that his contributions are celebrated with the culture, custom, traditions and dignity he deserve.
Adieu, Pa Chief E.K. Clark – a father, a patriot, and a beacon of hope whose impact will be remembered for generations to come”, he stressed.
