By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

The Governor of Anambra State, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, has expressed deep grief on the passing of a most distinguished Nigerian elder statesman and Pan-Niger Delta Forum leader, Chief Edwin Clark, who died at the of 97.

Soludo in a condolence message by his Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, extolled Chief Clark as an extraordinary Nigerian patriot who served this nation with uncommon dedication as a former Federal Commissioner for Information and leader of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF).

He said: “Clark's voice resonated not just for the Niger Delta, but for all of Nigeria. As a lawyer, educationist, and elder statesman, Chief Clark's interventions on national issues were marked by wisdom, foresight, and a dogged commitment to national unity founded on the principles of justice and equity.

“He was ever unapologetic in his pursuit of justice, equity, and true federalism, as his life exemplified the possibility of building bridges across ethnic and regional lines for the greater good of our nation.

“Although Chief Clark’s passing marks the end of an era, his uncompromising pursuit of a united, just, and truly federal Nigeria lives on.”

The Governor also mourned the recent passing of Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, who passed away at 96.

He described him as a relentless advocate for true federalism, saying that he would be dearly missed.

Governor Soludo further commiserated with the families of Chief Edwin Clark and Pa Ayo Adebanjo, the people of Niger Delta and Yoruba land, PANDEF and Afenifere, praying that their souls rest in peace.