Tinubu Pays Tribute To Edwin Clark, Describes Him As A Courageous Icon

President Bola Tinubu has conveyed his sorrow over the death of Chief Edwin Clark, a renowned Pan-Niger Delta Forum leader and former Federal Commissioner for Information.

Tinubu’s condolence message was contained in a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Tuesday.

Tinubu said, “He led an illustrious life marked by dedicated service, at different times, to the nation and his community as a councillor, state, and federal cabinet member.

“He was also a passionate advocate for resource control and economic and environmental justice in the Niger Delta.”

The statement reads: “On behalf of the federal government, the President extends his condolences to the Edwin Clark family, the Ijaw nation, the people of the Niger Delta, and the government of Delta State. President Tinubu mourns Chief Clark and describes his passing as a deeply sobering loss.

“Reflecting on the life of the late statesman, the President says Chief Clark was a towering figure whose influence was felt across Nigeria’s political firmament for nearly six decades. The President states that Chief Clark was a courageous leader who stood for what he believed in and was never afraid to stand alone in the face of injustice.

“Chief Clark spoke for the Niger Delta. He spoke for the nation. His views and interventions on national issues were distinct and patriotic. Pa Clark, a lawyer and educationist, believed in a united Nigeria, and until his last breath, he never stopped reaching out to people from different parts of the country to work together to preserve national unity based on justice and equity.

“As an astute politician, his political opponents never doubted the weight of his words, his confidence, and his conviction when he spoke. Indeed, a patriot has transitioned to the great beyond. History will remember him as a man who fought gallantly for the rights of the people of the Niger Delta, unity in diversity, and true federalism. I know many generations will remain proud of how his efforts contributed to national prosperity and stability.”

Tinubu prayed for divine comfort for Chief Clark’s family, friends, and all those affected by this significant loss.

Earlier, PUNCH Online reported that Clark passed away on Monday.

His demise was announced by a representative of the family, Prof. C. C. Clark, on Tuesday.