In a final impassioned address moments before his passing, revered South-South leader Chief Edwin Clark delivered a message that encapsulated his lifelong commitment to Nigeria. According to close aides, the elder statesman urged Nigerians not to succumb to despair, declaring that the people must not have a “giving up spirit.” Instead, he reassured them that their collective efforts would undoubtedly succeed in transforming Nigeria into a better society.
In his final hours, as he lay surrounded by family and trusted associates at DIFF Medical Centre, Abuja, Chief Edwin Clark’s voice resonated with the familiar determination that had characterized his decades of public service. “The people must not have a ‘giving up spirit,’” he reportedly said, assuring all those present that the struggle for a just, equitable, and prosperous Nigeria would continue beyond his own lifetime. His words served as a clarion call for persistent advocacy and unwavering commitment to national progress.
Perhaps even more striking was Chief Clark’s unconventional final request regarding his departure. Rather than asking for mourning, he advised that his exit be marked by celebration. “Do not mourn when I depart the world,” he said, insisting that his life and legacy should be commemorated with joy and gratitude. In urging celebrations over tears, the statesman emphasized that his life’s work was not an end, but rather a continuation of the fight for a better Nigeria—a battle that every Nigerian is now invited to carry forward.
Chief Edwin Clark’s storied career spanned over seven decades during which he was a fearless advocate for justice, equity, and unity. a period during which he served in key roles including Commissioner for Education and Finance in the former Midwestern State, official spokesman of the Federal Government in 1975, and later as a vocal champion for the rights of the Niger Delta people. As a seasoned lawyer, educationist, and activist, he was known for his unwavering commitment to a united Nigeria, never hesitating to speak truth to power in pursuit of equity, good governance, and social justice.
Known for his bold stance on national issues and his unwavering commitment to the underprivileged, the Ijaw leader had long been a beacon of hope for millions across the Niger Delta and beyond. His final words now echo as a powerful reminder that true change is born of resilience, collective action, and an unbreakable spirit.
As Nigeria comes to terms with the loss of a visionary leader, these parting words serve not only as a tribute to his enduring legacy but also as a beacon guiding future generations. His call for a celebration of life rather than mourning is expected to resonate across the nation, inspiring communities and leaders alike to continue the quest for a united, just, and prosperous Nigeria.
Admitted to hospital after a rapid deterioration in his condition last Friday, the esteemed leader’s final moments were marked not by despair but by a call to action. “Chief Clark urged his people not to have a ‘giving up spirit,’ assuring them that their struggle for a better Nigeria was far from over,” said Mrs. Rebecca Clark-Okorodudu, his first child.
Amb. Godknows Igali, National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), in his tribute, stressed that his passing should galvanize his followers—members of both PANDEF and the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders’ Forum (SMBLF)—to continue the fight for restructuring and national progress.
The news of Chief Clark’s demise sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s political corridors, eliciting heartfelt tributes from top political figures. President Bola Tinubu described the late statesman as “a courageous leader who spoke for the Niger Delta and the nation.” Tinubu lauded Clark’s role in bridging divides across Nigeria’s diverse regions, noting that his “views and interventions on national issues were distinct and patriotic.”
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, reflecting on the loss of another giant of Nigerian patriotism, remarked through his media aide, Kehinde Akinyemi, “Nigeria is fast depleting its ranks of dedicated and resourceful patriots, and Chief Clark’s contributions to national progress and the betterment of his people will long be remembered.” His sentiment was echoed by former President Goodluck Jonathan, who described Clark as “a father figure and a relentless crusader for justice,” adding that his counsel and support during Jonathan’s tenure were invaluable.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar characterized Chief Clark as “a Trojan war horse in the battlefields for independence” and a “veteran freedom fighter” whose legacy would inspire future generations of Nigerians. Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi similarly affirmed, “He lived and died for Nigeria. His passion for justice and equitable governance was the cornerstone of his life’s work.”
Beyond personal tributes, many national and regional leaders seized the moment to call for renewed commitment to the causes Chief Clark championed. The Middle Belt Forum’s Bitrus Porgu urged President Tinubu to view Clark’s passing as a “wake-up call” to intensify efforts toward restructuring the Nigerian polity for greater fairness and inclusivity.
PANDEF, under the leadership of National Publicity Secretary Olorogun Obiuwevbi Ominimini, declared that “a mighty Iroko has fallen,” symbolizing not only the loss of a towering figure but also the enduring strength of the struggle for justice and resource control in the Niger Delta.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio poignantly observed that “with the passing of Pa Clark, an era draws to a solemn close,” underscoring the deep void his departure leaves in Nigeria’s political and social fabric. Leaders from across the geopolitical spectrum—including governors from Delta, Rivers, Bayelsa, Enugu, Lagos, and other states—shared similar sentiments, with many vowing to honor his legacy by upholding the principles of equity, national unity, and justice for all.
Chief Edwin Clark’s remarkable journey is interwoven with the broader narrative of Nigeria’s post-independence history. From his early days as a dynamic advocate for education and reform to his later years as a respected elder statesman, he remained a steadfast voice for the marginalized, especially within the oil-rich Niger Delta region. His contributions spanned the realms of law, education, politics, and community development, leaving an indelible imprint on the nation’s collective memory.
Related story: https://symfoninews.com/edwin-clark-vs-ifeanyi-okowa-here-are-those-who-betrayed-the-south/
In his final hours, as he advised that his home be a place of hospitality—encouraging that any visitor be treated to food and drink—Chief Clark exemplified the warmth and generosity that characterized his leadership. Even as his voice fell silent, his spirit continues to echo in the calls for restructuring and the pursuit of a more just, united Nigeria.
As the nation grieves, the passing of Chief Edwin Clark also serves as a call for reflection and renewed activism. His life, marked by selfless service and an unyielding commitment to his country, stands as a beacon for future generations to continue the work of building a Nigeria that lives up to its highest ideals.
