The town of Kiagbodo in Delta State has come alive with activities as prominent Nigerians gathered to pay their final respects to the late elder statesman and Ijaw nationalist, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark.
Among the high-profile guests at Tuesday’s burial rites were former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan; Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his wife, Deaconess Tobore; Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri; Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed; and Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno.
Also present were the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; Senator Thomas Joel-Onowakpo; and Senator Ede Dafinone, among other top government officials and political leaders.
READ ALSO: Chief Edwin Clark for burial May 13
The atmosphere in Kiagbodo was vibrant, with Ijaw cultural music and traditional displays filling the air. Leaders of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), led by Prof. Benjamin Okaba, and the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) were also in attendance, joining hundreds of mourners celebrating the life and legacy of the foremost Ijaw icon.
Born May 25, 1927, he died on February 17, 2025 in Abuja. He was founder of thr Edwin Clark Foundation and established the Edwin Clark University, Kiagbodo.
He was appointed Nigeria’s Federal Commissioner of Information in 1975 and has been a vocal voice in successive governments.
The ceremony commences with the arrival of his remains in a white casket, with the Nigerian and Ijaw nationality flags draped across and carried into the hall, where special guests will be hosted for a brief interment service.
A solemn service was held Monday evening, at Chief Clark’s Warri residence, with the President, Ijaw National Congress, Prof. Benjamin Okaba; Administrator, Presidential Amnesty Programme, Chief Dennis Otuaro ; Registrar, Nigeria Maritime University, Paul Bebenimibo; Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; Chairman, -Warri Southwest, Sylvester Oromoni among others in attendance.
Chief Clark was the convener of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), and a strong crusader for the development of the oil-rich region.
“Pa Clark was a fearless advocate who stood unshaken in the face of injustice. His voice was our shield, and his courage inspired generations,” Guwor stated in his tribute.
