By Sola Ojewusi
Kiagbodo, Delta State – February 18, 2025
Nigeria has lost one of its foremost statesmen and South-South leader, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, who passed away at the age of 97 on Monday night, February 17, 2025.
A former Federal Commissioner for Information and a prominent Ijaw nationalist, Clark was a key figure in Nigeria’s political landscape, having served in the administrations of military governor Samuel Ogbemudia and former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon.
His death was confirmed in a statement issued by his family, signed by Prof. C. C. Clark. The statement read:
“The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, wishes to announce the passing of Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, OFR, CON, on Monday, 17th February 2025. The family appreciates your prayers at this time. Other details will be announced later by the family.”
Clark, the leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), was a vocal advocate for the rights of the Niger Delta region, championing resource control and political equity for the South-South zone. Over the decades, he played a crucial role in shaping Nigeria’s political discourse, particularly in advocating for regional development and justice.
His passing comes just days after the death of another elder statesman, Afenifere leader Chief Ayo Adebanjo, who died at the age of 96.
As tributes pour in from across Nigeria and beyond, Chief Clark’s legacy as a fearless advocate, politician, and nationalist remains firmly etched in the nation’s history.
