BREAKING: PANDEF leader, Chief Edwin Clark, passes away at 97

Chief Edwin Clark, a revered elder statesman, former federal commissioner for information, and prominent leader of the Ijaw ethnic group, has passed away at the age of 97.

His death was announced by the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town in Delta State.

The news of his demise has sent shockwaves across the nation, with tributes pouring in from political leaders, community figures, and citizens who admired his lifelong dedication to the development of Nigeria and the Niger Delta region.

Chief Clark, who was also the leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), played a pivotal role in advocating for the rights and development of the Niger Delta people.

His contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape spanned decades, earning him respect as a voice of reason and a champion of justice and equity.

A Life of Service and Advocacy
Born on May 25, 1927, in Kiagbodo, Delta State, Chief Edwin Clark dedicated his life to public service and the pursuit of a better Nigeria.

He served as the Federal Commissioner for Information during the military regime of General Yakubu Gowon, where he was instrumental in shaping national communication policies.

His tenure was marked by a commitment to transparency and the dissemination of accurate information to the public.

Beyond his role in government, Chief Clark was a fearless advocate for the Niger Delta region, which has long been plagued by environmental degradation, poverty, and underdevelopment.

As the leader of PANDEF, he tirelessly campaigned for the implementation of policies that would address the region’s challenges, including the cleanup of oil-polluted areas, equitable resource distribution, and infrastructural development.

Tributes Pour In
The news of Chief Clark’s passing has elicited an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the country.

Political leaders, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former President Goodluck Jonathan, and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, have expressed their condolences, describing him as a “pillar of wisdom” and a “father of the Niger Delta struggle.”

In a statement, President Tinubu said, “Chief Edwin Clark was a true patriot who devoted his life to the service of Nigeria.

His contributions to the development of the Niger Delta and his unwavering commitment to justice and equity will never be forgotten. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.”

Similarly, former President Goodluck Jonathan, who hails from the Niger Delta region, described Chief Clark as a “mentor and a guiding light.”

He added, “Chief Clark’s voice was a constant reminder of the need for fairness and inclusivity in our nation. His passing is a great loss to Nigeria and the Niger Delta.”

In his later years, Chief Clark remained active in national discourse, offering counsel on critical issues and advocating for constitutional reforms that would strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.

*Funeral Arrangements

The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family has announced that funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.