Nigeria is mourning the loss of one of its most distinguished elder statesmen, Chief (Dr.) Senator Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, who passed away at the age of 97 on February 17, 2025. The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, announced his passing, expressing gratitude for the public’s prayers and indicating that further details would be provided in due course.
Born on May 25, 1927, in Kiagbodo, Delta State, Clark’s career spanned several decades, during which he made significant contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape and the development of the Niger Delta region. He served as the Federal Commissioner for Information during General Yakubu Gowon’s administration and was a vocal advocate for the rights and development of the Niger Delta. As the leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Clark championed resource control, fiscal federalism, and regional development, earning him respect across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.
A Profile in Nigerian Politics
Early Political Career and Regional AdvocacyEdwin Clark’s political journey began in the 1950s when he was actively involved in the nationalist movements that sought Nigeria’s independence from British colonial rule. As a lawyer, he used his legal expertise to challenge colonial policies and later played a crucial role in shaping regional politics in the then-Midwest region, which later became part of Delta State.
During the First Republic (1963-1966), Clark was a key figure in the Midwest State’s political evolution, aligning himself with progressive movements advocating for minority rights. He was a staunch supporter of Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s political vision and was instrumental in pushing for regional development policies that would later define his advocacy for the Niger Delta.
Role in Military Governments (1966-1979)Following the military coup of 1966, Clark remained politically active, aligning himself with the government of General Yakubu Gowon. As Federal Commissioner for Information (1975-1976), he played a crucial role in the administration’s communication strategies, advocating national unity during a period of great political instability.
Clark was a strong advocate for the creation of states to address ethnic and regional grievances, a position that aligned with Gowon’s state creation policy. His tenure as Information Commissioner saw him emerge as a national political figure, often serving as the bridge between the military government and civilian political structures.
The Second Republic and Political Turmoil (1979-1983)
With Nigeria’s return to civilian rule in 1979, Edwin Clark aligned himself with the National Party of Nigeria (NPN), which won the elections that year. As an influential figure in the party, he was involved in policy discussions regarding oil revenue distribution and the role of the Niger Delta in national development.
However, his time in mainstream politics was short-lived as the 1983 coup brought an abrupt end to civilian rule. Despite this setback, Clark continued to play a behind-the-scenes role, advising political leaders and advocating for democratic governance.
The Niger Delta Struggle and Return to Democracy (1999-2025
)Clark’s most defining political years came in the Fourth Republic, beginning in 1999 when Nigeria returned to democratic governance. He emerged as the most vocal advocate for the Niger Delta’s development, calling for resource control, environmental justice, and economic empowerment for the oil-producing states.
His leadership of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) made him the de facto spokesperson for the region. He played a crucial role in negotiations between militant groups and the Nigerian government, contributing to the 2009 amnesty program that helped curb violence in the Niger Delta. He also engaged with successive administrations, including those of Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Umaru Yar’Adua, Goodluck Jonathan, and Muhammadu Buhari, always pushing for greater investment in the region.
Legacy and Impact Beyond politics
Clark was a philanthropist and educationist. He founded the Edwin Clark Foundation and established a university in his hometown, contributing to the educational advancement of the region. His influence transcended ethnic and regional boundaries, earning him respect as a national figure who stood firmly for justice, equity, and the rights of marginalized communities.
His passing comes shortly after the loss of another esteemed elder statesman, Afenifere leader Pa Ayo Adebanjo, marking the end of an era for Nigeria’s political elders. Edwin Clark’s enduring legacy as a fearless nationalist, elder statesman, and unwavering voice for the marginalized will continue to inspire future generations.
