Edwin Clark, the former Federal Commissioner for Information and a leading figure in the South-South region, has passed away at the age of 97.

In a statement issued by the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, it was confirmed that Clark died on Monday night, February 17, 2025. The statement, signed and issued on Tuesday by Prof. C. C. Clark, expressed appreciation for the prayers and support from well-wishers during this time of mourning.

“The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, announces with deep sorrow the passing of Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark OFR, CON on Monday, February 17, 2025. We appreciate your prayers at this time. Further details will be provided later by the family,” the statement read.

This tragic news follows the recent death of Afenifere leader Ayo Adebanjo, who was 96 years old.

The statement was jointly issued by Professor College Clark of the Clark-Fuludu-Bakederemo family of Kiagbodo, Burutu Local Government area of Delta State, and Ambassador Dr. Godknows Igali, the National Chairman of PANDEF.

Describing his passing as the fall of a “mighty Iroko tree,” the statement highlighted Chief Clark’s towering contributions to public service, politics, and community development over 75 years.

“Pa Clark was indeed a towering figure in Nigeria, known for his tireless advocacy for justice and human rights,” the statement read.

A distinguished lawyer, activist, and politician, Chief Edwin Clark was a prominent leader of the South-South region of Nigeria and the Ijaw ethnic nationality.

He founded PANDEF and co-led the South and Middle Belt Leaders Forum, advocating tirelessly for justice, equality, and human rights.

“His brilliant mind and generous spirit will continue to inspire future generations to strive for a more just and compassionate society,” the statement continued.

Throughout his career, Clark was known for his outspoken defence of marginalised communities and his relentless pursuit of a fair and equitable society.

His contributions extended beyond politics into the legal profession, education, and community development, where he founded several universities.

As he quietly departs just months before his 98th birthday, PANDEF expresses comfort in the biblical words from Acts 13:36: “After he had served the purpose of God in his generation, he fell asleep and was allowed to rest.”

Clark’s passing comes shortly after the death of his longtime associate and fellow elder statesman, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, prompting further reflection on the end of an era in Nigeria’s political and social landscape.

The statement concluded by noting that details of his funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.

President Bola Tinubu who was deeply saddened by the passing of Chief Edwin Clark, the elder stateman said he lived an illustrious life marked by dedicated service, at different times, to the nation and his community as a councillor, state and federal cabinet member.

In a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said Chief Clark was a towering figure whose influence was felt across Nigeria’s political firmament for nearly six decades.

The President stated that Chief Clark was a courageous leader who stood for what he believed in and was never afraid to stand alone in the face of injustice.

”Chief Clark spoke for the Niger Delta. He spoke for the nation. His views and interventions on national issues were distinct and patriotic.

”Pa Clark, a lawyer and educationist, believed in a united Nigeria, and until his last breath, he never stopped reaching out to people from different parts of the country to work together to preserve national unity based on justice and equity.

”As an astute politician, his political opponents never doubted his words’ weight, confidence, and conviction when he spoke. Indeed, a patriot has transitioned to the great beyond.

”History will remember him