President Bola Tinubu, former President Goodluck Jonathan, his wife Dame Patience, Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori and his wife, Tobore, were among the dignitaries who paid tribute to the late elder statesman, Chief Edwin Clark, on Tuesday.
The funeral service was held at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Kiagbodo, in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State. Other dignitaries in attendance included Governors Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), and Bala Mohammed (Bauchi State).
Also present were the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, and his wife, Ezinne Catherine; former Governors Ifeanyi Okowa, Senator Joel-Onowhakpo Thomas, Senator Ede Dafinone, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, and Chief Rufus Ada George; and the Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, among others.
President Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, expressed sadness over the passing of the elder statesman, and respected leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Chief E. K Clark.
Tinubu said: “Pa Clark was a passionate advocate for resource control, economic and social justice. He was a beacon of courage who spoke for the Niger Delta and the nation.
“His views on national issues were distinct and patriotic. He believed in a united Nigeria. As an astute politician, even his opponents never doubted his integrity”. Former President Goodluck Jonathan described Pa Clark as a great nationalist who lived in full validation of human dignity.
“He was a staunch advocate for freedom and national pride. Pa Clark was more than a father and leader; he was an ambassador, an audacious voice for the voiceless, and a stead- fast preacher of justice and minority rights.
“Whether as a federal commissioner or later as an elder statesman, he remained a courageous and fearless advocate for equity, justice, inclusivity, and good governance”, he said.
Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio said, “Pa Clark was a pan-Nigerian and Pan-African who fought for all, including the minorities.
“He has left a legacy and a responsibility to his followers. He did well for Nigeria and for the Niger Delta. The Senate valued him, and his memory will remain
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