President Bola Tinubu expressed deep sadness over the death of Chief Edwin Clark, former Federal Commissioner for Information and leader of PNDF.
Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences in a statement released on Tuesday by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
A lifetime of dedicated service
In his message, President Tinubu described the late Clark as a man who led an illustrious life, marked by unwavering dedication to both his community and the nation. Tinubu acknowledged Clark’s vast contributions as a councillor, a member of state and federal cabinets, and a passionate advocate for the people of the Niger Delta region.
“He led an illustrious life marked by dedicated service to the nation and his community,” Tinubu said. “His work as a councillor, cabinet member, and advocate for resource control, economic and environmental justice in the Niger Delta, will forever be remembered.”
Condolences to the family and community
The statement, issued on behalf of the federal government, also extended Tinubu’s condolences to Chief Clark’s family, the Ijaw nation, the people of the Niger Delta, and the government of Delta State. The President referred to Clark’s passing as a “deeply sobering loss,” reflecting on the late leader’s immense influence across Nigeria for nearly six decades.
A courageous and conviction-fueled leader
In paying tribute to Clark, Tinubu emphasized the statesman’s courage and conviction. “Chief Clark was a towering figure whose influence was felt across Nigeria’s political landscape. He was a courageous leader who stood firm in his beliefs and never hesitated to speak up against injustice,” Tinubu said.
The President added that Chief Clark’s voice was a constant source of advocacy for the Niger Delta and the nation. As a lawyer and educationist, Clark’s work was always driven by a sense of justice and a desire for unity across Nigeria. Throughout his life, he reached out to various groups, promoting national unity based on fairness and equality. Even in his final days, he remained committed to this cause.
Champion for Niger Delta and national unity
“Chief Clark spoke for the Niger Delta. He spoke for the nation. His views were distinct, patriotic, and always focused on advancing national interests,” the statement noted. “He believed in a united Nigeria and worked tirelessly to foster this vision, never ceasing to urge collaboration between the country’s diverse communities.”
A political legacy that endures
As a seasoned politician, Clark was known for his strength of character. His political opponents always respected the weight of his words and the unwavering confidence with which he expressed his views. Tinubu reflected on Clark’s enduring legacy, noting that the late statesman would be remembered as a man who fiercely championed the rights of the Niger Delta people. His efforts for unity in diversity, true federalism, and the pursuit of justice will remain etched in the country’s history.
“Indeed, a patriot has passed on,” Tinubu remarked. “History will honor him for his relentless fight for the rights of the Niger Delta people, and for his role in shaping Nigeria’s unity, prosperity, and stability.”
Prayers for the family and friends
Tinubu concluded by offering prayers for divine comfort to Chief Clark’s family, friends, and all those mourning this significant loss. “I pray that God grants his family, friends, and all those affected by his passing the strength and peace they need in this difficult time,” the President said.
Official announcement of his death
Chief Clark’s death was first reported by The New Daily Prime on Monday, with the news officially confirmed by his family representative, Professor C. C. Clark, on Tuesday. The loss of the political icon has left many in the Niger Delta and across the country grieving the departure of a leader who devoted his life to the well-being of his people and the nation as a whole. His passing marks the end of an era for both the Niger Delta and Nigerian politics at large.
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