ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Nigerian Senate has urged the Federal Government to immortalize the late Chief Edwin Clark, a former Federal Commissioner for Information and renowned South-South leader, by naming a national monument after him.
Additionally, the Senate resolved to send a delegation to sympathize with his family and participate in his funeral rites in recognition of his contributions as a former senator.
The Senate’s call to immortalize Edwin Clark reflects a national recognition of his immense contributions to justice, unity, and development.
Meanwhile, during Tuesday’s plenary, the upper chamber observed a minute of silence in Clark’s honour and paid heartfelt tributes to the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) leader, who passed away on February 17, 2025, at the age of 97.
The resolutions followed a motion titled “The Demise of Senator (Chief) Edwin K. Clark, OFR, CON (May 25, 1927 – February 17, 2025),” sponsored by Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas (APC-Delta South) and co-sponsored by 16 other senators from the South-South geopolitical zone.
In his presentation, Senator Thomas highlighted Clark’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape and his unwavering dedication to the Niger Delta’s development.
He said, “Pa Edwin Clark was a nationalist, a renowned lawyer, a seasoned administrator, a philanthropist, and an astute advocate for the Niger Delta region.”
Born in Kiagbodo, Delta State, Clark’s political career began in 1953 when he was elected as a councillor for Bomadi.
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He played an active role in the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) and later emerged as a key figure in the Midwestern Region’s struggle for Nigerian unity during the 1966 constitutional conference.
As Midwestern Commissioner for Education and Finance (1966-1975), he was instrumental in establishing the Midwest College of Technology, which later became the University of Benin.
In 1975, he was appointed Federal Commissioner for Information, working closely with then-Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon.
He also served as a senator during the Second Republic (1979-1983) and was a founding member of PANDEF, advocating for the Niger Delta’s development and security.
Vanguard reports that several senators praised Clark’s courage, leadership, and lifelong advocacy for justice and equity.
Senator Ede Dafinone (APC-Delta Central) described him as a fearless leader:
“He was not just a political leader; he was a father. His willpower will be missed.”
Senator Seriake Dickson (PDP-Bayelsa West) called Clark an iconic leader who served meticulously, while Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (APGA-Abia South) commended his advocacy for marginalized communities:
“We acknowledge his contributions to Nigeria, especially his fight for the underprivileged and his steadfast courage.”
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Senator Adamu Aliero (PDP-Kebbi Central) described Clark as a unifying figure: “He preached unity across ethnic lines, fostering peace and togetherness.”
Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro (PDP-Benue South), expressed deep sorrow over Clark’s passing:
“We lost him at a time when his wise counsel was most needed. He was one of the formidable founding fathers of modern Nigeria.”
Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP-Bauchi Central) added that Clark’s influence extended beyond regional divides, calling him an inspirational figure.
On his part, Senate President Godswill Akpabio acknowledged Clark’s relentless advocacy for minority rights and national unity.
“His voice resonated above the age of 90. Whenever he spoke, you could hear the passion in his words about Nigeria,” Akpabio said.