Nigeria has lost one of its most formidable voices in the struggle for equity and regional development as Elder Statesman Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), has passed away at the age of 97.
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CONFIRMNEWS gathered that Clark, a former Federal Commissioner for Information and an unwavering advocate for the rights of the Niger Delta, died on Monday, February 17, 2025.
His passing was confirmed in a statement by a family representative, Prof. C. C. Clark, on Tuesday. The statement read:
"The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, wishes to announce the passing of Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, OFR, CON, on Monday, 17th February 2025. The family appreciates your prayers at this time. Other details will be announced later by the family."
Chief Clark was a revered political figure, elder statesman, and outspoken champion of Nigeria’s resource control and restructuring debate. His activism and leadership in the Niger Delta struggle spanned decades, earning him national and international recognition.
The death of the nonagenarian comes just three days after the demise of another prominent elder statesman, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, the leader of Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group. Pa Adebanjo died at the age of 96, marking a significant loss of two influential voices in Nigeria’s political landscape within a short span.
Born in 1927, Chief Clark was a strong advocate for the economic and political empowerment of the South-South region.
He played a critical role in Nigeria’s political evolution, serving in various capacities, including as a senator and federal commissioner.
His firm stance on national unity, good governance, and resource control shaped several national policies and debates.
Tributes have already started pouring in from across the country, with political leaders, traditional rulers, and socio-political groups mourning the loss of a towering figure in Nigeria’s history.
More details on his burial arrangements will be announced by the family in due course.