19th February, 2025
By Ayorinde Oluokun/Abuja
Businessman and prominent leader of ex-agitator in the Niger Delta, Senior High Chief Bibopete Ajube has described late leader of Pan Niger Delta Forum, Chief Edwin Clark as a statesman of exceptional courage, a mentor to many, and a relentless advocate for the rights of his people.
“His unwavering commitment to the cause of resource control, regional development, and national unity defined his journey as a political figure, elder statesman, and activist,” Ajube said while paying tribute to Clark, who was also a former Nigeria’s Information Minister in a statement titled: Tribute to Chief Edwin Clark: “A Legacy of Leadership and Justice,” he personally signed on Tuesday evening.
“With profound sadness, we bid farewell to a true icon, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, whose life was dedicated to the pursuit of justice, equity, and the advancement of the Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will forever remain a guiding light for generations to come,” Ajube added in the statement.
He noted that the late Niger Delta titan who died on Monday after a brief illness was never afraid to speak truth to power in all the positions he occupied while alive.
Ajube especially noted that Clark was not only a strong voice for the oppressed, but he succeeded in putting Niger Delta’s struggles for justice, equity and fairness over its resources on the front burner of national discourse.
“From his days as a federal commissioner to his role as an advisor and father figure in Nigeria’s political landscape, Chief Clark consistently spoke truth to power.
“He was a voice for the marginalized, a defender of democracy, and a champion of peace. His leadership and wisdom shaped critical national conversations, ensuring that the Niger Delta’s struggles were never ignored,” the Arogbo Ijaw leader noted in the tribute.
Ajube also expressed his deepest condolences go to the family of late Clark, the Ijaw Nation, and all Nigerians over the loss of the advocate for justice.
“As we mourn this monumental loss, we also celebrate a life well lived—one of service, sacrifice, and an unyielding commitment to justice. May his indomitable spirit continue to inspire us to uphold the values he stood for: fairness, unity, and development.
“Our deepest condolences go to his family, the Ijaw Nation, and all Nigerians who feel the weight of this loss. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” Chief Ajube concluded in the statement.
