How PANDEF Leader Edwin Clark Died At 97

The nation mourns as one of Nigeria's most prominent voices in the Niger Delta struggle, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, passes on at the age of 97.

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has been thrown into mourning following the passing of its leader, Chief Edwin Clark, a towering figure in Nigeria's political landscape and a key advocate for the rights of the Niger Delta region. Clark, who was known for his unwavering stance on resource control, restructuring, and good governance, breathed his last on Monday, February 17, 2025.

His demise was confirmed in an official statement released by a representative of the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family, Prof. C.C. Clark, on Tuesday.

The statement reads: "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."

Edwin Clark was not just a political leader; he was an institution in himself. Born in Kiagbodo, Delta State, he played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria's governance through his advocacy for regional development, justice, and equity. A former Federal Commissioner for Information, Clark remained a force in Nigerian politics long after his tenure in government, dedicating his life to the fight for the interests of the Niger Delta and the broader South-South geopolitical zone.

As the convener of PANDEF, he led critical negotiations between the Federal Government and Niger Delta agitators, working to ensure peace, economic progress, and sustainable development in the oil-rich region. His bold stance on national matters earned him both admiration and opposition, but he remained undeterred in his pursuit of fairness for his people.

Sources close to the family revealed that Chief Edwin Clark had been battling age-related ailments in the months leading up to his death. Though no official cause of death has been disclosed, it was gathered that the elder statesman passed away peacefully at his Kiagbodo residence, surrounded by family and close associates.

His death comes just three days after another prominent elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, died at the age of 96. The loss of both leaders within a short span has sent shockwaves across the country, especially among socio-political organizations that relied on their wisdom and leadership.

Tributes have begun pouring in from various quarters, with political leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society groups expressing their condolences to the Clark family. Many have described him as a fearless advocate for justice, a mentor to younger generations, and a pillar of strength for the Niger Delta struggle.

As Nigeria prepares to bid farewell to one of its most distinguished statesmen, arrangements for his burial are expected to be announced soon. Meanwhile, PANDEF and other groups have called for a national day of mourning in honor of Edwin Clark contributions to nation-building.

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