Prominent Nigerian elder statesman and Niger Delta leader, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, has died at his residence, marking the end of an era in Nigerian politics and advocacy for the Niger Delta region. The death of the former Federal Commissioner for Information was announced in a statement by Prof. C.C. Clark on behalf of the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State.
Chief Clark, who passed away on Monday night, February 17, 2025, was a towering figure in Nigerian politics and a fearless advocate for the rights and development of the Niger Delta region. His death comes at a crucial time in Nigeria’s national discourse about resource control, environmental justice, and regional development.
Throughout his illustrious career spanning several decades, Clark served in various capacities that shaped Nigeria’s political landscape. As Federal Commissioner for Information under General Yakubu Gowon’s military government, he played a pivotal role in managing public communications during a critical period in Nigeria’s history. His tenure was marked by forthright communication and unwavering commitment to national unity, even while advocating for the interests of his region.
In his later years, Clark became increasingly focused on the struggle for justice and equitable resource distribution in the Niger Delta region. As the leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), he consistently championed the cause of environmental remediation, resource control, and sustainable development in Nigeria’s oil-producing regions. His advocacy efforts often brought him into direct confrontation with both government authorities and multinational oil companies, earning him respect across political divides.
Clark’s death resonates particularly deeply as it follows closely on the heels of the passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, the 96-year-old Afenifere leader. The loss of these two elder statesmen within a short period represents a significant transition in Nigeria’s political leadership, particularly among the country’s elder statesmen who have been vocal on issues of national unity and restructuring.
Throughout his life, Clark remained an outspoken critic of policies he believed undermined the interests of the Niger Delta region and Nigeria as a whole. His advocacy was characterized by bold statements and unwavering positions on national issues, particularly those affecting the socio-economic development of the Niger Delta region. He frequently called for the restructuring of Nigeria’s federal system to ensure more equitable distribution of resources and political power.
As a former senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Clark utilized his political platform to draw attention to the environmental degradation and economic marginalization of the Niger Delta region. His efforts contributed significantly to bringing international attention to the environmental challenges facing the region and the need for sustainable solutions to these problems.
Clark’s influence extended beyond regional politics. He was known for his role as a bridge-builder across Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and political landscapes. Despite his strong advocacy for Niger Delta interests, he maintained relationships across Nigeria’s political spectrum and often intervened in national crises, providing counsel and leadership during challenging periods in the nation’s history.
The late elder statesman was also known for his mentorship of younger political leaders and his commitment to grooming the next generation of Nigerian leaders. His home in Abuja became a pilgrimage site for political consultations and national discourse, where he freely shared his wealth of experience and insights on national issues.
Clark’s death creates a significant void in Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly in the advocacy for Niger Delta rights and development. His passing raises questions about the future leadership of various Niger Delta advocacy groups and the direction of the region’s struggle for environmental justice and resource control.
The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family has indicated that further details regarding funeral arrangements will be announced in due course. As Nigeria mourns the loss of this distinguished statesman, his legacy of advocacy for justice, equity, and national development continues to resonate across the country’s political landscape.
Chief Clark’s passing marks the end of an era in Nigerian politics, particularly for the Niger Delta region. His death not only represents the loss of a strong voice for regional interests but also signals a generational transition in Nigeria’s political leadership. As the nation reflects on his legacy, the challenge remains for the next generation of leaders to continue his work in advocating for equitable development and national unity while addressing the specific challenges facing the Niger Delta region.
