The funeral ceremonies for revered elder statesman and Niger Delta leader, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, began in Abuja with a Memorial Lecture and a Day of Tributes, drawing dignitaries from across Nigeria to honor the life and legacy of the late national icon.
The memorial lecture, delivered by constitutional lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Professor Mike Ozekhome, celebrated Chief Clark’s enduring contributions to national development, human rights, and regional advocacy. Ozekhome described him as a fearless voice of truth and justice who championed equity and fairness throughout his life.
Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, under whose administration Clark served as Federal Commissioner for Information, and former President Goodluck Jonathan, were among the prominent figures who paid heartfelt tributes. Dr. Jonathan hailed the late statesman as “a courageous voice of reason and a relentless advocate for equity and justice.”
Other notable speakers included Ambassador Godknows Igali, Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF); Senator John Mbata, President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide; Dr. Bitrus Pogu, National President of the Middle Belt Forum; Chief Olusola Ebiseni, Secretary General of Afenifere; and Professor Benjamin Okaba, President of the Ijaw National Congress. Together, they painted a portrait of a man who stood as a unifying figure across Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and regional lines.
The event also drew an impressive roster of political and civil society leaders, including Major General Aibi Haruna (Rtd.), former Akwa Ibom Governor Obong Victor Attah, Chief John Nwodo, Professor Jerry Gana, rights activist Annkio Briggs, and Chief Okey Nwadinobi. Members of the Clark family, serving and former governors, deputy governors, senators, members of the House of Representatives, and numerous other national figures were in attendance.
Former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan, former Minister of Information Labaran Maku, Senator Seriake Dickson, Admiral John Jonah, Dr. Kingsley Kuku, and Professor Steve Azaiki were also present to pay their respects.
Fondly known as E.K. Clark, he was widely regarded as the “Conscience of the Nation” for his tireless advocacy on national issues well into his advanced years. Even in his 90s, Chief Clark remained active in national discourse, regularly addressing the media and speaking truth to power.
Beyond his role as Federal Commissioner for Information under General Gowon’s administration, Clark also served as a member of the advisory committee to the Mid-Western Region’s military governor in 1966 and as a board member of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation—later the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN).
Chief Edwin Clark passed away on February 17, 2025, at the age of 97, leaving behind a towering legacy of service, courage, and unwavering commitment to the Nigerian nation.
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