PANDEF, Keyamo mourn death of Edwin Clark

The Pan Niger Delta Forum has described the passing of Chief Edwin Clark as the fall of a “mighty Iroko tree.

A statement by PANDEF had earlier announced the passing of Clark, a revered national leader and elder statesman.

He was said to have died peacefully in Abuja on the evening of Monday, February 17, 2025, at the age of 97, surrounded by family and loved ones.

The statement was signed by the National Publicity Secretary/Spokesman of PANDEF, Obiuwevbi Ominimini, on Tuesday.

The statement was jointly issued by Professor College Clark of the Clark-Fuludu-Bakederemo family of Kiagbodo, Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, and Ambassador Dr. Godknows Igali, the National Chairman of PANDEF.

The statement highlighted Chief Clark’s towering contributions to public service, politics, and community development over 75 years.

“Pa Clark was indeed a towering figure in Nigeria, known for his tireless advocacy for justice and human rights,” the statement read.

A distinguished lawyer, activist, and politician, Chief Edwin Clark was a prominent leader of the South-South region of Nigeria and the Ijaw ethnic nationality.

He founded PANDEF and co-led the South and Middle Belt Leaders Forum, advocating tirelessly for justice, equality, and human rights.

“His brilliant mind and generous spirit will continue to inspire future generations to strive for a more just and compassionate society,” the statement added.

As he  departs just months before his 98th birthday, PANDEF expresses comfort in the biblical words from Acts 13:36: “After he had served the purpose of God in his generation, he fell asleep and was allowed to rest.”

Clark’s passing comes shortly after the death of his longtime associate and fellow elder statesman, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, prompting further reflection on the end of an era in Nigeria’s political and social landscape.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo SAN, expressed sadness on the death of Clark.

Keyamo expressed his condolences in a brief statement on his X handle on Tuesday.

He wrote, “Our leader and father is gone at a time we needed him most. Pa Edwin Clark, leader of the South-South, father of the nation and quintessential patriot is no more.

“He was a consummate politician in his heyday and became a fearless and outspoken critic in his later years.

“He lived a very fulfilled life of service to our country. Condolences to the Clark family and to the nation in general. He will be sorely missed.”