By Calista Oyeoba / Posted February 18, 2025
Renowned Nigerian statesman and leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF),who has bestrode the political stratosphere of the nation, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, has passed away at the age of 97.
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Clark’s demise was announced in a statement signed by Prof. C. C. Clark for the family and Mr. Penawei Clark for the children, saying the elder statesman died peacefully in Abuja on the evening of Monday, February 17, 2025, at the age of 97, surrounded by family and loved ones.
The statement reads, “The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, wishes to announce the passing of Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark OFR, CON on Monday, 17th February 2025.
The announcement was made through a press statement signed by Olorogun (Sir) Obiuwevbi Ominimini, Ph.D., the National Publicity Secretary/Spokesman of PANDEF. It was jointly issued by Professor College Clark of the Clark-Fuludu-Bakederemo family of Kiagbodo, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, and Ambassador Dr. Godknows Igali, OON, the National Chairman of PANDEF.
Describing his passing as the fall of a “mighty Iroko tree,” the statement highlighted Chief Clark’s towering contributions to public service, politics, and community development over 75 years.
A distinguished lawyer, activist, and politician, Chief Edwin Clark was a prominent leader of the South-South region of Nigeria and the Ijaw ethnic nationality. He founded PANDEF and co-led the South and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF), advocating tirelessly for justice, equality, and human rights.
Throughout his career, Chief Clark was known for his outspoken defense of marginalized communities and his relentless pursuit of a fair and equitable society. His contributions extended beyond politics into the legal profession, education, and community development—where he founded several universities.
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“Pa Clark was indeed a towering figure in Nigeria, known for his tireless advocacy for justice and human rights,” the statement read. “His brilliant mind and generous spirit will continue to inspire future generations to strive for a more just and compassionate society.”
As he quietly departs just months before his 98th birthday, PANDEF expressed comfort in the biblical words from Acts 13:36:
“After he had served the purpose of God in his own generation, he fell asleep and was allowed to rest.”
Chief Edwin Clark’s passing comes shortly after the death of his longtime associate and fellow elder statesman, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, prompting further reflection on the end of an era in Nigeria’s political and social landscape.
The statement concluded by noting that details of his funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
It seems like a generation of elders are leaving the stage, just as this latest tragedy is coming in the heels of the demise of another elder statesman and chieftain of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization, Afenifere, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, who died on Friday.
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NOTE: Calista is a Trainee-journalist who contributes regularly to DDNEWSONLINE.COM from the Department of Mass Communication, Ekocity Polytechnic, Lagos