The Nigerian Senate has called on the Nigerian Government to immortalize the late Chief Edwin Clark, a former Federal Commissioner for Information and a prominent South-South leader, by naming a national monument in his honor.
The resolution was passed during the Senate’s plenary session on Wednesday, where the upper chamber also decided to send a delegation to express condolences to Clark’s family and attend his burial and funeral rites, acknowledging his service as a former senator.
Clark, the leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum, passed away on Monday night at the age of 97. His death was officially announced by his family on Tuesday, prompting tributes from across the political spectrum, particularly for his role as a mediator and advocate for the Niger Delta region.
In honor of his memory, the Senate held a moment of silence and passed 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. Thomas praised Clark as a nationalist, a renowned lawyer, and an advocate for the rights of the Niger Delta people, highlighting his deep commitment to Nigeria’s political evolution.
Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, paid tribute to Clark’s decades-long dedication to the fight for justice and equity, recognizing his efforts to unite Nigeria’s diverse regions. Akpabio emphasized how Clark’s voice continued to resonate powerfully into his 90s, advocating for the rights of minorities and national unity.
Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro (PDP-Benue South), lamented the loss of Clark, stating, “We lost him at a time when his wise counsel was most needed.” He described Clark as one of the formidable founding fathers of modern Nigeria.
Other senators, including Seriake Dickson (PDP-Bayelsa West) and Enyinnaya Abaribe (APGA-Abia South), echoed similar sentiments, praising Clark’s legacy as an iconic leader who fought tirelessly for the marginalized and the underprivileged.
Adamu Aliero (PDP-Kebbi Central) honored Clark’s role as a bridge-builder, noting his commitment to fostering unity across ethnic lines and promoting peace throughout the country.
Born in Kiagbodo, Delta State, Clark’s political journey began in 1953 when he was elected a Councillor for Bomadi. He was a member of the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC) and played a crucial role in the Midwestern Region’s push for Nigerian unity during the 1966 constitutional conference. His tireless advocacy for the Niger Delta, his role as a leader and negotiator, and his unwavering commitment to national development and justice have cemented his place as a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s political history.
The Senate’s resolution to immortalize Clark underscores the enduring impact of his contributions to national unity, equity, and the rights of Nigeria’s marginalized communities.
