In a profound and heartfelt tribute, the Peoples Democratic Party candidate in the 2024 governorship election in Edo State, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, has described the late Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, aged 97, as “a colossus and a man of unshakeable convictions whose life was a relentless fight for equity, resource control, and the true emancipation of the Niger Delta”.
Ighodalo heaped praises on Clark in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Erhabor Emokpae, in Benin City on Wednesday.
He said: “Nigeria has been dealt yet another heavy blow in the passing of Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, who was an irrepressible pillar of leadership, a fearless advocate for justice, and one of the most formidable voices for the Niger Delta and the Nigerian federation.
“For over six decades, he stood at the frontline of Nigeria’s political evolution, refusing to be silenced in the face of injustice.
“Nigeria has lost yet another giant, and I have lost another father figure, a mentor, a friend, and a guiding force. Chief Edwin Clark was a man of immense wisdom, a fearless statesman, who never backed down from speaking truth. He carried the hopes and dreams of his people on his shoulders and fought every battle with courage and resilience.
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“His vision for Nigeria—a nation of fairness, inclusivity, and genuine federalism—must not be abandoned.
“As a minister, statesman, and elder of the Ijaw nation, Chief Clark dedicated his life to fighting for resource justice, national unity, and the political rights of marginalized communities. His voice resonated far beyond the Niger Delta, shaping the course of Nigerian history with an integrity that remained intact through decades of shifting political tides.
“His passion for the Niger Delta and his determination to ensure that the region received its due was second to none. He fought tirelessly for fairness in resource allocation, for development, and for the recognition of his people’s sacrifices to the nation. But beyond that, he was a true nationalist—he wanted a Nigeria where every region, every ethnic group, and every citizen was treated with equal dignity.”
Ighodalo added that the late nonagenarian “was a man of remarkable courage, unafraid to challenge power when the interest of the people was at stake. His unwavering stance on national issues made him one of the last great uncompromising voices of truth and reason.
“He was bold, he was fearless, and he was unwavering in his beliefs. He stood for justice when it was unpopular, and he remained steadfast even when others faltered. Nigeria may not have always listened, but history will vindicate him.”
As the country comes to terms with the passing of yet another towering statesman, Ighodalo called on leaders, especially the younger generation, to learn from Chief Clark’s indomitable spirit.
He said: “The loss of Chief Clark, coming so soon after the passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, deepens an aching void in Nigeria’s conscience. We are losing the rearguard of the fearless generation – men who fought without compromise, who carried the burden of this country on their backs, and who refused to waver in their principles. It is now up to us to ensure that their legacy does not die with them.
“Though his voice has gone silent, his messages must continue to echo through the corridors of power, urging the nation toward equity, progress, and true democracy.
“Rest without fear, Chief. Your work on this earth is done, but your legacy will live forever.”
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