BY KELVIN ONYEKACHUKWU, ASABA
DELTA: Emotions ran deep in Warri, Delta State, a historic Ijaw stronghold, as the remains of High Chief Senator Dr. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark arrived to a hero’s farewell from the people he spent a lifetime defending. The elder statesman and Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) leader, who passed on after decades of service to the Niger Delta, was honoured in a solemn, tradition-rich ceremony that drew leaders from across Nigeria.
The final rites, held at his residence on Samp Road in Warri South Local Government Area, became a powerful moment of reflection on the life of a man widely revered as the voice of the Niger Delta and the conscience of the Ijaw nation.
Leading the host of dignitaries was the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, who joined other prominent sons and daughters of the Ijaw ethnic nationality in a moving show of solidarity and respect.
“Pa Clark was a fearless advocate who stood unshaken in the face of injustice,” said Speaker Guwor. “His voice was our shield, and his courage inspired generations.”
Also present were Dr. Dennis Burutu Otuaro, Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme; Ambassador Godknows Igali; Professor Benjamin Okaba, President of the Ijaw National Congress; and Comrade Austin Ozobo, President of the Ijaw Publishers Forum.
They were joined by Chief Tunde Smooth, Ambassador Joel Bisina, Comrade Eric Omare, and Comrade Mingo Meshach Saya Ogumaka, among others, each paying homage to a man who embodied the struggle for equity, resource control, and environmental justice.
“Papa Clark was not just a leader; he was our compass,” said Comrade Mingo. “His legacy will continue to guide us as we push for a better Niger Delta.”
Comrade Ozobo added that Clark’s contributions to the media and intellectual development of the Ijaw people were immense. “He taught us how to use our voices for change and gave us the courage to tell our own stories.”
Through decades of activism and political engagement, Clark became a towering figure in Nigeria’s history. His advocacy helped spotlight the plight of oil-producing communities, pushing for reforms that reverberated beyond the creeks of the Niger Delta.
The event also served as a rallying call for unity and continuity in the Niger Delta struggle. In the words of Chief Vero Triple Chief, “Pa Clark has handed us the baton. It’s time to run with it together.”
As the sun set over Warri, the Ijaw people and the broader Niger Delta bid farewell to a giant whose life was a mission and whose death marked the end of an era. Yet, his legacy remains alive etched in the hearts of those he defended, and echoed in the continuing struggle for justice, peace, and progress.