“I am a Nigerian, I love Nigeria, Nigeria is my country, I am proud to be a Nigerian,” these were the last words of South-South Leader, Chief Edwin Clark, who died Monday night, aged 97, according to the family.

This came as President Bola Tinubu, former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Senate President, Godswil Akpabio, and former Anambra State governor, Mr. Peter Obi, and governors mourned the passing of the nationalist.

Others include Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF, and Southern and Middle Belt Leaders’ Forum, SMBLF, where he was also the leader.

Vanguard gathered that Clark, who was admitted at DIFF Medical Centre, Abuja, died about 11.45p.m., on Monday, ahead of his 98th birthday that would have been May 25, 2025.

Disclosing this to Vanguard, yesterday in Abuja, the National Chairman of PANDEF, Amb. Godknows Igali, and the first child of the elder statesman, Mrs. Rebecca Clark-Okorodudu, said those he was leaving behind, especially members of PANDEF and SMBLF, must continue with the struggle and should not rest on their oars in the fight for restructuring.

According to them, “Chief Clark said in his last hours that the people must not have a ‘giving up spirit,’ assuring that they would surely succeed in making Nigeria a better society again”.

The elder statesman, before his death, also warned that no one should mourn when he departs the world, but said there should be celebration all round.

He also advised that anyone who came to his house during the period should be given food and drinks.

These were what he told those around him last Friday before he could no longer speak and was rushed to the hospital where he was admitted when his condition had become critical.

Reacting to his death yesterday, President Bola Tinubu expressed deep grief, describing him as a courageous leader who stood for what he believed in.

Tinubu said: “Chief Clark spoke for the Niger Delta, he spoke for the nation. His views and interventions on national issues were distinct and patriotic.

“Pa Clark, a lawyer and educationist, believed in a united Nigeria, and until his last breath, he never stopped reaching out to people from different parts of the country to work together to preserve national unity, based on justice and equity.

“As an astute politician, his political opponents never doubted his words’ weight, confidence and conviction when he spoke. Indeed, a patriot has transitioned to the great beyond.

“History will remember him as a man who fought gallantly for the rights of the people of the Niger Delta, unity in diversity and true federalism.

“I know many generations will remain proud of how his efforts contributed to national prosperity and stability.”

In his reaction, former President Obasanjo in a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, said: “I received yet another shocking and sad news of the passing of a great brother and friend, a frontline lawyer, a seasoned economist, a tested administrator, an accomplished politician and a revered community leader, Chief Clark.

“It was shocking because we lost Chief Ayo Adebanjo, another prominent and illustrious son of Nigeria, just about four days ago. Indeed, the ranks of the nation’s patriotic leadership is fast depleting by the loss of our dedicated and resourceful patriots who served the nation in various capacities, particularly at this crucial state in our nation’s history when their wise counsel and rich experience are greatly needed.

“There is no gainsaying the fact that Chief Clark had an eventful service to the nation as Commissioner for Education and Finance in the former Midwestern State, at various times between 1968 and 1974, and his stint as the official spokesman of the Federal Government in 1975 cannot go unrecognised. I remember him as a close colleague in the cabinet of General Yakubu Gowon.

“Over the years, Chief Clark was imbued with an undying love for his people and remained one of the more articulate and vocal champions of improved conditions for the oil-bearing States of the country. As one of the foremost leaders of not only the Ijaw people, but the South-South zone as a whole, he, until his death, exhorted his people on the imperative of peace and stability in the region.”

Former President Jonathan, who expressed deep sadness over the death of the elder statesman, described him as a father figure and a relentless crusader for justice who devoted his life to the betterment of the society.

In a condolence message, the former President, wrote: “It is with a heavy heart that I extend my deepest condolences to the immediate family, friends, and associates of the revered elder statesman, Chief Clark, who has passed on to eternal glory.

“Chief Clark was not just a father figure to me but a peerless icon of Nigeria’s political landscape, a voice of reason, and a relentless advocate for justice, equity, and unity.

“His was a life of selfless service, unwavering courage, and an unyielding commitment to the development of the Niger Delta region and Nigeria as a whole. His wisdom, foresight, and dedication to the principles of fairness and good governance inspired generations of leaders, including myself.

“He was a man of integrity, a bridge-builder, and a patriot who devoted his life to the betterment of our society.

“I recall with deep gratitude his invaluable counsel and support during my tenure as President of Nigeria. His passion for the Niger Delta and his relentless pursuit of peace and progress, not only in the region but across the country, remain indelible marks of his legacy. Chief Clark’s passing is not just a loss to his family but to the entire nation, as we have lost one of our most respected and influential leaders.

“Chief Clark lived a fulfilled life, leaving behind a legacy of courage, resilience, and service to humanity.”

Also reacting yesterday, former President Muhammadu Buhari said the death Chief Edwin Clark has caused deep sorrow in his heart and that of many, describing his departure as a loss for the nation.

Calling him an “iconic statesman,” the former president said the late Clark was a leader dedicated to reforms, whose commitment to the development of his community and the nation would always be remembered.

The former president in a statement by his media aide, Mallam Garba Shehu, said the late Ijaw leader had left an indelible imprint on the nation and that in his passing, Nigeria had lost an iconic statesman and a distinguished leader, adding that his commitment to the unity of the country would be respected by generations to come.

He urged the Clark family and fellow citizens in the Delta region of the country to uphold his numerous achievements.

Former Vice President Abubakar, on his part, described the death of elder statesman, Chief Clark as a great loss to Nigeria.

He said Nigeria was still in mourning over the demise of exemplary statesman, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, 96, when the sad news of Pa Clark’s passing was brought to his attention.

Atiku said: “Chief Clark was a Trojan war horse in the battlefields for independence. Above all, he was a diehard proponent of nation-building, true federalism, equity, and good governance.

“Undoubtedly, he was a veteran freedom fighter, educationist, philanthropist, legal luminary, and astute administrator who mentored many nationalists and patriots like us.

“Clark spoke loudly and worked assiduously in support of inclusiveness, especially for the minority ethnic groups in Nigeria. He was fiery, fearless, and forthright in his peaceful and constitutional pursuit of an egalitarian society in our country. Sadly, that lofty dream seemed to have dimmed before his eyes.

“But, we, his mentees, shall rekindle the torch and continue the drive for a better Nigeria.

He lived and died for Nigeria, says Peter Obi

Labour Party, LP, presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, said the late Chief Clark was a personality who lived and died for Nigeria.

Speaking to journalists after signing the condolence register at the Asokoro residence of the elder statesman, Obi said: “Let me first and foremost, thank God Almighty, that called him home, and I’m sure he will grant him eternal rest and grant us the fortitude, and continue to bless the family. He lived and died for Nigeria. He loved Nigeria, and he consistently preached and fought for better governance in Nigeria, based on justice, based on equity, based on care for all.

“Like I did say inside, we are fast losing the voices, strong voices that were able to fight even at the risk of their lives, at the risk of losing everything, they refused to be compromised in speaking the truth, speaking for justice, and for us, it is now becoming imperative that we have to live their life if we want a better Nigeria.”

Reacting, the Middle Belt Forum, MBF, leader, Bitrus Porgu, asked President Tinubu to use the death of Chief Clark as a wakeup call to revisit the issue of restructuring of the country for equity, fairness and justice.

Speaking with journalists, yesterday, during a condolence visit to the Abuja residence of late Clark, Porgu, who described the elderstatesman as a man who has served as a rallying point to all of them as a founder of the Southern Middle Belt Leaders Forum, SMBLF, said his death and that of Chief Ayo Adebanjo have devastated them, creating a great vacuum.

He said: “ Chief Clark was a Nigerian, not only a South South person, everything he started before his departure should be wake up call for us, Restructuring must continue, we will try to step into his shoes, we will ensure that we continue from where he stopped. President Bola Tinubu should see this as a wakeup call to restructuring.”

Similarly, the Pan-Niger Delta group, PANDEF, the apex socio-political umbrella body of the Niger Delta, said a mighty Iroko had fallen.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Olorogun Obiuwevbi Ominimini, PANDEF stated: “A national patriach, a renowned lawyer, activist, and politician, Chief Clark was also the leader of the people of the South-South region of Nigeria and the Ijaw ethnic nationality, in particular. He founded PANDEF, SMBL, among many others.

“Pa Clark was indeed a towering figure in our Nigeria for over 75 years of active public service, known for his tireless advocacy for justice, equality, and human rights.

“His contributions to the legal profession, politics, community development, and the educational sector where he founded several universities are immeasurable.

“As he quietly departs after a very active life that just eluded his 98 birthday, his standing as a passionate champion of the people, a brilliant mind, and a generous spirit will continue to inspire all Nigerians to work more towards a more just, equitable, and compassionate society.”

Also reacting, Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, in his condolence message, said Pa Clark’s demise was a monumental loss to Nigeria, the Niger Delta, and all who cherish unity, fairness, and national progress.

He said: “With the passing of Pa Clark, an era draws to a solemn close. Today, we do not merely mourn the departure of a man, we grieve the fading of a guiding light, a towering statesman whose voice resonated with wisdom, courage, and an unshakable love for Nigeria. His was a life of service, a life of conviction, and above all, a life dedicated to justice.

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Pa Clark, a renowned statesman, nationalist, and Ijaw leader. His dedication to Nigeria’s unity and development will remain evergreen in the hearts of those who knew him.

“As a nation, we have lost a true patriot and a champion of justice. At 97 years old, Pa Clark stood as a bridge between generations, his life a testament to resilience, integrity, and an unwavering belief in the promise of Nigeria.”

Similarly, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State expressed deep sadness over the passing of the elder statesman, describing him as an unpretentious federalist who gave his all in service to God, country and humanity at large.

Mbah, in a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, @PNMbah, yesterday, said Chief Clark discharged his calling as a conscience of the nation, voice of reason, social crusader, and a champion of equity, justice, and true federalism.

“I received with rude shock the passing on of a revered statesman, Chief Edwin Clark. He was one man, whom you were never in doubt of where he stood on any national issue.

“He was a courageous leader and was not just bold and vocal, but also he was principled in his advocacy.

“He was a conscience of the nation, voice of reason, social crusader, champion of equity and justice, and an unpretentious federalist.

“He fought for democracy, good governance, and fiscal federalism until he breathed his last. This is, therefore, a grave loss, not only to his immediate family, Delta State, and the Niger Delta, but also to the nation as a whole,” he said.

Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, PAP, Dr. Dennis Otuaro, has expressed sorrow over the death of elder statesman and foremost leader of the Ijaw nation, Chief Clark.

Otuaro, in a statement, stated that as a fearless Ijaw man, Clark was a tireless and consistent freedom fighter for minority rights and a powerful advocate for true federalism, resource control, environmental justice, economic development and better living condition for his people in the Niger Delta.

Otuaro said that as a growing young Ijaw man, he learnt and benefitted valuable life-lessons at the feet of the departed elder statesman which had helped him a great deal in his life.

Also paying glowing tributes to the late Ijaw leader, the chairman of Southern Governors Forum, SGF, Governor Dapo Abiodun, described Clark’s death as a profound loss to Nigeria, saying, however, that his passing was a glorious conclusion of a monumental chapter in Nigerian history.

Abiodun, in a statement said: “The exit of Pa Clark at 97 marks a watershed in Nigerian history. As a man who lived through the struggles and triumphs of the colonial, Independence, and post-independence eras with all the twists and turns, Chief Clark was simply a personification of Nigerian history.

“He served with distinction for about seven decades and was one of the most accomplished voices of courage and progressivism that Nigeria has ever witnessed.

“The outpouring of emotions following his death, coming on the heels of the transition of a kindred spirit, the inimitable Pa Ayo Adebanjo, indeed marks a moment that all Nigerians must be proud of.

“He was a courageous fighter till literally his last breath, galvanising the Southern and Middle Belt peoples for the restructuring of the Nigerian polity and preaching peace at all times. He was indeed a patriot of the finest breed.”

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of of Rivers State, stated: “I am deeply saddened to hear about the loss of our beloved father and leader, Chief Clark. Despite his age, he remained active, serving as a beacon of hope and conscience to leaders in government.

“He kept in touch with national issues and did not cease providing elderly counsel to leaders at various levels, in pursuit of responsible and responsive leadership in Nigeria.

“He has left indelible footprints as a nationalist for the inspiring roles he played in MBLF and as leader of PANDEF. I pray to the Almighty God to grant the repose of his soul and reward his courageous services to the Niger Delta region and Nigeria.”

We lost a voice that spoke truth to power – S’South govs, leaders, stakeholders

In the same vein, governors, leaders, and people of the South-South geo-political zone said yesterday they lost a voice that spoke truth to power, with the final breath of Chief Clark.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, who described the exit of the elder statesman, as the end of a great era, said: “Today, I mourn the passing of an elder statesman, Nigerian patriot, and role model, Chief Clark, an icon whose influence traversed Nigeria’s political scene for six decades. Teacher, educator, public servant, and politician, Chief Clark was a model of integrity, consistency, fidelity to a cause, and patriotic fervor.

“To the people of the Niger Delta, he was their champion. Bold, outspoken, and fearless, he stood resolute in crusading for fairness, equity, and justice for the region.

“His exit is also a personal loss; he was a motivator, mentor, and father to me. I will miss his wisdom, counsel, and zest for life.

“On behalf of my family, the government, and the people of Delta State, I commiserate with the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State on the passing of Chief Clark, February 17, 2025.

“My thoughts and prayers are with his family, the people of Kiagbodo, and the Ijaw nation over this monumental loss. We can all take solace in the saying that Chief Clark came, he saw, and he conquered.

“Pa Clark, an astute lawyer, administrator, patriot, and freedom fighter, was a prominent player in Nigerian politics and a tenacious supporter of the rights of Niger Deltans.”

Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, who lamented that the Ijaw nation lost its father figure and irrepressible voice, described him as an icon, a treasure of inestimable value, and a nationalist par excellence.

“Until the very end, he was unrelenting. As the Ijaw nation reflects on the passage of this exceptional sage, we take solace in his matchless contributions to national development.

“On behalf of the Ijaw nation, the government, and the people of Bayelsa State, I express heartfelt condolences to the Clark family of Kiagbodo in Burutu Local Government Area and the Delta State government.”

Gov Diri directed flags to fly at half-mast for three days in honour of Edwin Clark

In his tribute to Clark, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, yesterday, described the death of the Ijaw leader as the end of an era in Nigeria.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a condolence by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Gboyega Akosile reads: “He was a foremost nationalist and a leading voice in the campaign for a better Nigeria as well as Niger Delta. He fought tirelessly for the emancipation of his people during his lifetime.

“Chief Edwin Clark served his community, the Ijaw nation, Delta State, the Niger Delta region, and Nigeria as a whole in different capacities for about seven decades.

“I pray for the repose of the soul of the late Chief Edwin Clark. God will grant the deceased’s family and loved ones, the Ijaw nation, and the Niger Delta region the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”

Former Minister of Police Affairs and Ijaw leader, Alaowei Broderick Bozimo, and a friend of the departed elder statesman, said in Warri: “Chief Clark was undoubtedly one of Nigeria’s greatest political leaders. Brutally and fearlessly frank in speaking truth to power.

“We will eternally remain grateful to the Almighty for providing such a leader for the South-South, the Middle Belt, and the ljaw nation, his primary constituency.

“We of PANDEF will remain grateful to God Almighty for giving us such a rare germ of a leader as Chief Clark. His contributions were enormous.”

He will be missed by all — Chief Ekpoko, Itsekiri leader

Chairman of the Itsekiri Leaders of Thought, IloT, in Warri, in Delta State, Chief Edward Ekpoko, said: “The death of Chief Clark came to us as a rude shock. He was a compatriot in our struggle for justice for the people of the Niger Delta. All will miss him. Our hearts are with the immediate family.”

The Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw ethnic nationality, and Chairman of the Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, in a condolence message to the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo Family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, said: “Nigeria lost its unique and potent voice in the South-South geopolitical zone, which was a unique gift from God.

“His death has put a vacuum in the country’s leadership structure. He was a democratic and socio-economic crusader.

“Senator Clark was a strong, fearless, and irrepressible individual who spoke truth to power. He was a voice for the voiceless and a father for the fatherless. We will miss him.’’

“I pray that God Almighty gives the family and the country the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”

Similarly, former Delta State governor, Chief James Ibori, described the late PANDEF leader as an exceptional leader and fearless fighter who never hesitated to speak the truth when it mattered most.

Ibori, in a statement, said: “Chief Clark was a fearless fighter, a staunch federalist, and an exceptional leader of our time.

“He never hesitated to speak the truth when it mattered most, serving as a moral compass for the Ijaw Nation, Delta State, and Nigeria at large. In him burned the true spirit of the Niger Delta—courage, determination, and an unyielding commitment to justice.”

“His leadership was a beacon of hope and resilience, and his passing leaves a profound void. We will sorely miss his wisdom, guidance, and unwavering voice.”

Former Foreign Affairs Minister, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, while mourning Chief Clark, said the late Ijaw leader has earned his rest.

Akinyemi, who was the Deputy Chairman of the National Conference, said: “It is with a heavy heart that I heard this morning of the death of the old man, Chief Clark.

“For six months in 2014, I interacted at close quarters with him in the national conference. Chief Clark was a delegate as an eminent statesman, while I was the deputy chairman. One of the things that struck me was that Chief Clark was not late for one day or one session during the entire session of the conference.

“While he did not speak much publicly, behind the scene, his intervention was much and it was motivated by the desire to maintain a just and united Nigeria. He used his extensive links with fellow statesmen to assuage emotions when those flew. He has earned the rest and may he rest in peace.” (Text, excluding headline: Vanguard)