By Folorunso Alagbede, Abuja
Former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Prince Chibudom Nwuche has described the Elder statesman and former Federal Commissioner, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark who died on Monday night as a Nigerian hero and nationalist, who spent his entire life fighting for Justice and equity for the country.
Nwuche, a Prince from Rivers State, pointed out that with the exit of Chief Edwin Clark: Nigeria has lost an Elder Statesman, leader and patriot.
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives between 1999 and 2003 lamented that death has robbed Nigeria of a hero and nationalist, a man who spent his entire life fighting for Justice and equity for all Nigerians especially ethnic minorities across the federation.
Nwuche lauded late Chief Clark’s unwavering commitment to promoting participatory democracy, diversity, and truth inspired generations of Nigerians at home and in the diaspora.
The Deputy Speaker, in his condolence message, said: “Today, Nigeria mourns an elder statesman, a leader and patriot, Chief Edwin Clark joined our ancestors at the age of 97.
“I received the shocking news of the demise of this true Nigerian hero and nationalist, a man who spent his entire life fighting for Justice and equity for all Nigerians especially ethnic minorities across the federation.
“As a renowned leader and advocate for equity and inclusion, Pa Clark undoubtedly left an indelible mark on our nation’s history.
“His unwavering commitment to promoting participatory democracy, diversity, and truth inspired generations of Nigerians at home and in the diaspora.
“Born on May 25, 1927, in Kiagbodo, Delta State, Chief Clark rose to become a formidable voice in national affairs. As a federal commissioner for information under General Yakubu Gowon’s military government, Clark was instrumental to many key policies which shaped the administration.
“Throughout his life time, the elder statesman remained a fierce advocate for the people of the Niger Delta, championing their rights and interests.
“His activism laid the foundation upon which what has become known as PANDEF, a socio-political group for the promotion of regional interests was built.
“Clark’s influence extended beyond the Niger Delta, as he actively took part in constitutional reforms and democratic development and also protected the rights of oppressed Citizens of Nigeria across ethnic and religious boundaries.
“His legacy is a stark reminder that true leadership is about service to others. He will be deeply missed. We will however take consolation in his impact on Nigeria’s political and economic landscape which will continue to stand as a testament to his unwavering commitment to a life of service.
“We pray that God grants him eternal rest and all those he left behind the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss”, the message by Nwuche ended.
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