St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Kiagbodo, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, was the scene of solemn tributes and heartfelt eulogies as Nigeria bade farewell to one of its foremost elder statesmen, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark.
Dignitaries from across the nation—including President Bola Tinubu (represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume), former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife Dame Patience, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori—gathered to honor the life and legacy of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) leader.
Also present were Governors Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), and Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), alongside the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, and his wife, Ezinne Catherine. Former Governors Ifeanyi Okowa, Henry Seriake Dickson, and Rufus Ada George, as well as Senators Joel-Onowhakpo Thomas and Ede Dafinone, and Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, were in attendance.
A Nationalist Remembered
President Tinubu, through Senator Akume, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Pa Clark, describing him as “a passionate advocate for resource control, economic and social justice.” Tinubu said Clark was “a beacon of courage” whose principled voice resonated not only in the Niger Delta but across the nation.
“His views on national issues were distinct and patriotic. Even his political opponents never questioned his integrity,” Tinubu added.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan hailed Pa Clark as a rare nationalist who lived with an unwavering commitment to justice and equity.
“Pa Clark was more than a leader; he was an ambassador of truth, a fearless advocate for the voiceless, and a staunch preacher of national pride. Whether in office or as an elder statesman, his commitment to inclusivity, fairness, and good governance was unwavering,” Jonathan said.
“A Towering Icon of Principle” — Akpabio
Senate President Godswill Akpabio extolled Clark’s legacy as both pan-Nigerian and Pan-African.
“He fought for all—especially the minorities. He belonged to a generation that never bowed for convenience but stood tall for conviction. His life was a testament to integrity and principle,” Akpabio said.
Delta Governor Urges Unity
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori described Pa Clark as “fearless, bold, and assertive,” and someone who “never kept silent in the face of corruption or abuse of power.”
“He lived a fulfilled life, dedicated to public service and nation-building. Pa Clark was a teacher, an educator, and a champion for the marginalized,” Oborevwori said.
Calling for continued unity in the Niger Delta, the governor emphasized the importance of preserving Clark’s legacy. He urged leaders and citizens to rally behind credible leadership and forsake divisive sentiments.
“We must unite to advance the cause of our people. Our Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, is one of us, and we will support him. May Nigeria be blessed with more leaders like Chief Edwin Clark,” he concluded.
“A Good Name is Greater than Riches” — Cleric
Delivering a stirring homily, the Most Rev’d Cyril Odutemu, Archbishop of Bendel Province, Anglican Communion, described Chief Clark as a man of “impeccable character” and a “champion of justice and integrity.”
Quoting Proverbs 22:1, he emphasized that “a good name is better than riches,” and lauded Clark for using his legal expertise to serve the poor without charge.
The cleric decried the rise of false prophecies and moral decline in Nigeria, calling for national repentance and a return to the values upheld by the country’s founding fathers. Citing Matthew 6:33, he urged Nigerians to “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness,” urging the church and citizens alike to pursue lives of purpose, integrity, and eternal value.
