The Board, Management, and staff of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, join all Nigerians in mourning the glorious exit of the foremost nationalist and Niger Delta leader, Chief Edwin Clark.
The late Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF, leader was a rare gem for the people of the Niger Delta region, and his unrelenting advocacy for the region and Nigeria’s unity and development will remain evergreen in our memories.
For us in the NDDC, Pa Clark was an outstanding leader not just for the South-South geopolitical zone and the Niger Delta but for Nigeria and the black race.
We are consoled that the foremost Ijaw leader left an indelible footprint on the sands of time. His impactful life is etched in bold relief in various sectors of Nigerian national life, as are the enviable accomplishments he achieved in many years of distinguished national service.
As a man who lived through the struggles and triumphs of the colonial, Independence, and post-independence eras with all the twists and turns, Chief Clark was simply an unforgettable icon.
Pa Clark served Nigeria in several capacities. He was a member of an advisory committee to the military governor of the Mid-Western Region, David Ejoor. As a cabinet member during the administration of Military Governor Samuel Ogbemudia and his days as Federal Commissioner of Information in 1975, Pa Clark demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the Nigerian cause.
As commissioner for education, Chief Clark was instrumental in establishing the Mid-West College of Technology, which later became the University of Benin. The ex-Senator and founder of Edwin Clark University was very passionate about education
He was a courageous fighter until his last breath, galvanising the Southern and Middle Belt peoples to restructure the Nigerian polity and preach peace.
The passing of Pa Edwin Clark closes a glorious chapter in the country’s annals. We at the NDDC do not merely mourn the departure of a great man; we grieve the loss of a guiding light whose voice is revered with wisdom and courage.
Nigeria has lost a true patriot and a strong voice for justice.
Signed:
Mr. Chiedu Ebie, NDDC Chairman
For Board and Management.
