By EDEKI IGAFE

President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday led a host of dignitaries to Kiagbodo Community in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta to pay their final respects to the late elder statesman, Pa. Edwin Clark.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Clark, a renowned nationalist and leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), passed away on Feb. 17, at the age of 97.

The funeral service took place at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Kiagbodo, and was officiated by the Anglican Archbishop of the Ughelli Diocese, Most Revd. Cyril Odutemu, who praised Clark for his unwavering dedication to justice, integrity, and service to humanity.

Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, described the late icon as “a patriot and champion of his community and the country.”

“Though he lived to the ripe age of 97, his departure leaves an irreplaceable void for me, for the Niger Delta, the Ijaw nation, and our country as a whole.

“All will surely miss him. His service and legacy will continue to inspire us,” Tinubu said.

He commended Clark’s fearless stance on national issues, his advocacy for resource control, and his enduring commitment to justice and unity in Nigeria.

“Until his last breath, he never stopped preaching togetherness to preserve national unity based on justice and equity,” the president added.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, in his tribute, described Clark as a “great nationalist” and “audacious voice for the voiceless.

“Whether as a Federal Commissioner or elder statesman, he was a steadfast preacher of justice, minority rights, and good governance,” Jonathan said.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, in his remarks, said Clark’s good memories “will forever remain.”

He also donated N50 million towards the renovation of the existing church and the new building project.

Delta Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, pledged to sustain the elder statesman’s legacy, describing his life as a model for future generations.

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed also donated N50 million towards the church project, while Akume pledged N10 million for the installation of church seating.

Other dignitaries present included Governors Duoye Diri (Bayelsa) and Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Mrs Patience Jonathan.

Others were former Governors Rufus Ada George (old Rivers) and Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa), alongside numerous former and serving federal and state lawmakers. (NAN)

•PHOTO: L-R; Secretary to the Government of the Federation Sen. George Akume; former President Goodluck Jonathan, his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan, Delta Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori