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DIGNITARIES PAY TRIBUTE TO LATE ELDER STATESMAN, CHIEF EDWIN CLARK

The funeral service of the late elder statesman, Chief Edwin Clark, was held on Tuesday at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Kiagbodo, in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State. The service was attended by several dignitaries, including President Bola Tinubu, former President Goodluck Jonathan, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. President Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, described Chief Clark as a passionate advocate for resource control, economic and social justice. “Pa Clark was a beacon of courage who spoke for the Niger Delta and the nation. His views on national issues were distinct and patriotic. He believed in a united Nigeria,” Tinubu said. Former President Goodluck Jonathan described Pa Clark as a great nationalist who lived in full validation of human dignity. “He was a staunch advocate for freedom and national pride. Pa Clark was more than a father and leader; he was an ambassador, an audacious voice for the voiceless, and a steadfast preacher of justice and minority rights,” Jonathan said. Senate President Godswill Akpabio said Pa Clark was a pan-Nigerian and Pan-African who fought for all, including minorities. “He has left a legacy and a responsibility to his followers. He did well for Nigeria and for the Niger Delta. The Senate valued him, and his memory will remain a part of our national history,” Akpabio said. Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori described Pa Clark as fearless, vocal, bold, assertive, and unrelenting in speaking truth to power. “Pa Clark lived a fulfilled life and will be remembered for his legacy and contributions to nation-building. He was a teacher, educator, politician, and astute public servant, an example of a life dedicated to service,” Oborevwori said. The Archbishop of Bendel Province, Anglican Communion, Most Rev’d Cyril Odutemu, delivered a poignant homily, referencing Proverbs 22:1: “A good name is better than riches.” He lauded Pa Clark’s virtues, calling him a champion of integrity and a man of impeccable character. “His dedication to justice and integrity earned him the reputation of a true voice for the Niger Delta,” the Archbishop said.