Nigeria has lost one of its foremost elder statesmen and advocates for the Niger Delta region, Chief (Dr.) Senator Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, who passed away on Monday, February 17, 2025, at the age of 97.
The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, announced his passing in a statement signed by his brother, Prof. C.C. Clark, and his son, Penawei Clark.
The family expressed appreciation for the outpouring of prayers and condolences, stating that details of the funeral arrangements would be announced in due course.
Born on May 25, 1927, in Kiagbodo, Delta State, Edwin Clark was a towering figure in Nigerian politics and a tireless advocate for the rights of the Niger Delta people. His illustrious career spanned decades, during which he played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s political and regional development.
Clark served as the Federal Commissioner for Information under General Yakubu Gowon’s administration and was later elected as a senator during Nigeria’s Second Republic. His unwavering advocacy for justice, equity, and resource control earned him widespread respect across the nation.
As a committed leader of the Ijaw Nation, Clark founded the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) to advance the cause of the Niger Delta and push for regional development. His voice was central in the fight for resource control and greater inclusion of the region in Nigeria’s political and economic structure.
Throughout his life, Clark remained a vocal advocate for restructuring and fiscal federalism, often challenging successive governments to address the inequalities faced by oil-producing communities.
His contributions went beyond politics. A firm believer in education and community development, Clark established the Edwin Clark Foundation and founded a university in his hometown, Kiagbodo, to promote access to higher education in the region.
Reflecting on his legacy, his family noted, “Chief Edwin Clark’s life was dedicated to service, justice, and the advancement of the Niger Delta and Nigeria. His passing marks the end of an era, but his impact will endure through the causes he championed.”
Clark’s death follows closely after the passing of another elder statesman, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, leader of Afenifere, who died at the age of 96. The loss of both iconic figures within a short period has left the nation in mourning.
As Nigeria remembers Edwin Clark, tributes continue to pour in from political leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society groups, all acknowledging his life of service, courage, and unflinching commitment to justice.
Clark’s legacy as a fearless nationalist and champion of the Niger Delta struggle will remain etched in the annals of Nigeria’s history. The nation awaits further details on his final rites as his family and community prepare to celebrate a life well-lived.
