Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, a foremost South-South leader and former Federal Commissioner for Information, has passed away at the age of 97. His death was confirmed in a statement released by a family representative, Prof. C. C. Clark, on Tuesday, February 18, 2025.
Official Family Announcement
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.”
Clark’s passing follows the recent death of Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, who died at 96, underscoring the loss of two iconic figures in Nigerian political history.
A Life of Service and Advocacy
Clark was a lawyer, administrator, nationalist, and freedom fighter who remained a relentless advocate for the rights of the Niger Delta throughout his lifetime.
His political career spanned decades, during which he held several key positions at both regional and national levels:
- Commissioner for Education (Mid-Western Region) – 1968 to 1971
- Commissioner for Finance and Establishment (Bendel State) – 1972 to 1975
- Federal Commissioner for Information – 1975
- Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria – 1979 to 1983
Beyond politics, he was a leading voice for national unity, mediating conflicts and working toward peace in the Niger Delta region.
His Recent Efforts in Political Reconciliation
Clark recently played a crucial role in efforts to reconcile Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his former political mentor, Nyesom Wike. He established a reconciliation committee headed by former Akwa Ibom Governor Obong Victor Attah, under the umbrella of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF).
A Towering Political Figure
Clark’s influence in Nigeria’s political landscape was immense. He was an unwavering advocate for regional equity and played an active role in discussions about power shifts and governance, including his involvement in the 2022 Greater Nigeria Conference (GNC), where he pushed for a Southeast presidency in the 2023 general elections.
His death marks the end of an era, leaving a lasting legacy of activism, leadership, and commitment to national development. The family has promised to announce further details regarding his funeral arrangements in due course.
